Minerals Engineering, Vol.12, No.11, 1393-1397, 1999
Separation of feldspar from quartz using EDTA as modifier
A study was conducted to test a new technique for separating quartz from feldspar using EDTA as modifier in acid medium. The aim is to replace the modifier now in use, namely HF, because of the growing awareness of environmental and health problems. The research was carried out using a multiple approach including: zeta potential measurements and flotation tests with the EMDEE Microflot system. Comparison and correlation of the results of these experiments leads to the following conclusions: - It is possible to separate quartz from feldspar at around pH 2 using EDTA as modifier. - Of the tested collectors (cationic and cationic-anionic) the best results are obtained with a mixture having a ratio of 3 cationic to 1 anionic.