Study of the Sedimentation Parameters of an Iron Ore Tailing from Fundão Dam Using a Tannin-Based Coagulant

From the rupture of Fundão dam in Mariana–MG, there are tailings still present at bottom plant that must be recovered. The flocculation followed by sedimentation operation can applied as a unit this recovering process. Instead using conventional inorganic coagulants, bio-based coagulants offer some advantages, due to their low toxicity and biodegradability. Nonetheless, use mining industry is not established yet, complex parameters taken consideration. This study analyzes influence pH flocculant concentration, which variables 22 full factorial design. value for batch process was defined ranging from 5 9. Tanfloc, tannin-based coagulant, used coagulant agent. results indicate strong dependence on recommended 15 g/L dosage with varying 6 8. sedimentation, it possible determine an exponential model excellent fitting (R2 = 0.997). efficiency calculated 65.6%. These confirm potential materials tailing treatments. In addition, they equipment sizing simulations operation.