Insight into Nanobubble-Enhanced Flotation Separation of Microfine Ilmenite from Forsterite: Selective Adhesion and Hydrophobic Interaction Optimization

The flotation process of low-grade ilmenite faces considerable challenges, primarily due to its small particle size and large specific surface area. The introduction of nanobubbles (NBs) offers an effective approach to enhancing the flotation of fine particles. In this study, NBs produced via hydrodynamic cavitation were introduced into the flotation of -20 μm ilmenite. The results showed that NBs significantly enhanced ilmenite flotation and extended the recovery difference between ilmenite and forsterite to 49.37% at a 20 mg/L collector. NBs selectively adhered on the ilmenite surface and enhanced the hydrophobic interaction between ilmenite surfaces in the presence of collector, thereby improving the flotation performance of microfine ilmenite.