Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, Vol.49, No.19, 9322-9329, 2010
Enhancement of the Flotation Deinking Selectivity by Natural Polymeric Dispersants
The impact of natural polymeric dispersants, that is, carboxymethyl cellulose and guar gum, on the flotation selectivity was investigated on a flotation deinking pilot plant. Their effect on pulp flocculation, air bubble size, and gas hold-up was determined by implementing a fiber flocculation sensor, an automated bubble measurement device, and a gas hold-up sensor on the pilot cell. Dispersants reduced pulp flocculation and induced an increase in gas hold-up and a slight decrease in the air bubble size. Their addition promoted ink removal and, at the same time, depressed fiber entrainment and mineral fillers flotation, thus increasing exceptionally the flotation selectivity.