Specific Cation Effect on the Flotation of Graphite

Inorganic electrolytes are assumed to significantly impact the flotation performance of graphite resources; however, underlying mechanism is still unclear. In this work, effect three inorganic salts, including KCl, MgCl2, and AlCl3, was studied on graphite. Flotation results indicated increased recovery with addition KCl regardless pulp pH. MgCl2 improved under acidic slightly alkaline conditions, while AlCl3 had a better activation strong conditions. Contact angle Zeta potential confirmed that substantially reduced absolute value surface charge hydration surface, thus improving hydrophobicity. Froth stability studies multivalent Al3+ Mg2+ ions exhibit superior foaming than K+ contribute more stable abundant foam. Additionally, these salt tension prevented bubble coalescence, contributing nanobubble formation. Therefore, adding great significance for neutral