Effect of particle size and coenobium on KCl and NaCl flotation kinetics

Abstract

To enhance the separation of KCl and NaCl, this research investigates how particle size and potassium–sodium coenobium affect the flotation kinetics of KCl and NaCl. Pure mineral experiments reveal that both particle size and coenobium have significant influences. Specifically, as particle size increases, the difference in flotation rate between KCl and NaCl first increases and then decreases, reaching a maximum of 10.655 min⁻¹ at 75–150 μm. Furthermore, coenobium with higher KCl content floats faster, suggesting a limited flotation time to avoid low-KCl coenobium flotation. The results were verified by actual carnallite flotation experiments. This research has guiding significance for the regulation and optimization of potassium salt production.