Experimental Investigation on Safer Frother Option for Coal Flotation

Abstract

This work aimed to investigate a safer frother for coal flotation with achieving similar or better flotation performance, compared with the most common frother methyl isobutyl carbinol (MIBC) that caused some fire hazards in the past due to its low flash point (F.P. = 39 °C). Based on the higher flash points and low risk rating according to their safety data sheet, Dow Froth 250 (F.P. = 149 °C) and pine oil (F.P. = 78 °C) were selected to test against MIBC. Flotation tests were carried out at various frother dosages with/without diesel as a collector. Both Dow Froth 250 and pine oil had a good potential to be a safer alternative to MIBC in terms of coal grade and recovery. Pine oil was the most promising as a stand-alone reagent without a collector potentially making for a safer work environment with less chemical storage.