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Radiotracer techniques in modeling continuous flotation processes

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Abstract

Results of work on the development of a phenomenological model for the continuous flotation process using short-lived radioactive tracer techniques for determining model parameters is reported. A model that incorporates a flotation first-order rate constant and a residence time distribution based on the cross -flow finite-stage (CFFS) model has been derived and investigated. The short-lived radioactive tracer techniques and the nonlinear search methods necessary to extract the model parameters have been developed. The conditions under which all the model parametrs can be extracted from a single radiotracer experiment are detailed and illustrated. A micro-computer-based unique data logging system has been designed, assembled, and implemented for collecting the necessary transient radiotracer data. Results are reported for a continuous laboratory flotation process for the two systems, mica ore and coal.

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SME preprint 85–148, SME-AIME Annual Meeting, New York, NY, February 1985. MMP paper 85–623. Discussion of this paper must be submitted, in duplicate, prior to Jan. 31, 1987.

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Gardner, R.P., Verghese, K., Boateng, K. et al. Radiotracer techniques in modeling continuous flotation processes. Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration 3, 225–230 (1986). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03402485

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03402485

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