Improved suspension dewaterability using a novel pelleting flocculation device

Abstract

The decline in ore grades and increasing clay content in ore bodies present significant dewatering challenges for the mining industry, as finer grinding is required to liberate target minerals. This results in the production of fine mineral gangue, including clay minerals, which are discharged as tailings. Tailings are typically treated with flocculants to aggregate fine particles, improving settling and permeability. However, flocculation forms strong particle networks with reduced compressibility, constraining thickened slurry density and filter cake moisture. This study demonstrates a novel vertical screw pelletiser prototype for pelleting flocculation of kaolin suspensions, aimed at impr..