Studies of the Adsorbing Particle Flotation of Fe3+ and Cu2+

The adsorbing particle flotation of Fe2+ or Fe3+ and Cu2+ ions was studied by the combined use of bentonite (Bt) and a cationic surfactant, benzylhexadecyldimethylammonium chloride (BHDAC). Fe3+ ions were effectively floated from an aqueous solution by the use of Bt and cationic surfactant in a manner similar to the flotation by the use of sodium silicate and cationic surfactant. Most Fe2+ ions were found to be floated as Fe3+ ions, when the pH was increased by the addition of sodium hydroxide. The maximum floatability of 98% was obtained for Fe3+ under optimum conditions. The pH corresponding to the beginning of flotation of Fe3+ was influenced by the manner in which the pH of the solution was controlled. Cu2+ ions could also be floated, but less effectively than Fe3+ ions. Selective flotation of Fe3+ from the mixed solution of Fe3+ and Cu2+ was attempted and effectively achieved.