Selective Agglomeration of Engineered Artificial Minerals (EnAM) in a Suspension of Comminuted Slag

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The aim of the project is to extract selectively valuable minerals by agglomeration in the suspension of a crushed slag phase of the Engineered Artificial Minerals (EnAM). The selective agglomeration is based on the controlled use and modification of the wetting properties of suspended particles in the size range ≤ 10-20µm Depending on the wetting properties, particles are selectively bound into agglomerates with a typical diameter of 0.2-1mm. These agglomerates can be separated from the remaining suspension by sieving after selective agglomeration.The focus of this project will be on the systematic modification of the wetting properties and the investigation of interparticle interactions between particles and binding liquid with regard to selective agglomeration. In conjunction with the selection of suitable binding fluids, the wetting properties can be modified by changing the pH value, the use of surface-active substances or complexing agents.The following central questions are being addressed in this project:1) How can the wetting properties of valuable substances in suspension be specifically modified?For this purpose, the use of surface-active substances, the use of complexing agents and the modification of the pH value on the wetting properties will be investigated.2) Which binding liquids and agglomeration conditions are required for targeted selective agglomeration?A screening of possible binders, the way of addition, the variation and monitoring of the energy input over the whole agglomeration process as well as the temporal development have to be considered for this question.3) How do the wetting properties and interaction forces between particles and binding liquid droplets change after surface modification of the EnAM-crystals?The precise quantification and investigation of the wetting properties and interaction forces on individual particles is an essential basis for understanding the selective agglomeration of valuable EnAM.