What is Foam Flotation?
Foam flotation is a process in which target mineral particles in the slurry selectively attach to bubbles, rise to the surface, and form a mineralized foam layer.
By scraping or overflowing this foam, a concentrated mineral product is obtained, effectively separating valuable minerals from unwanted ones.
Introduction to 2# Oil Frother
2# oil frother is one of the most important frothers used in flotation.
It is commonly used in mineral processing due to its excellent foaming properties.
Chemical Composition of 2# Oil Frother
The chemical formula of No. 2 oil frother is C₁₂H₂₅SO₄Na.
This formula represents its molecular structure, which consists of:
- C (Carbon): 12 atoms
- H (Hydrogen): 25 atoms
- S (Sulfur): 1 atom
- O (Oxygen): 4 atoms
- Na (Sodium): 1 atom
These atoms are bonded together to form the structure of 2# oil frother, allowing it to exhibit strong foaming and surfactant properties.
Key Properties of No. 2 Oil Frother
No. 2 oil frother has several essential characteristics that make it widely used in both household and industrial applications:
- Excellent Foaming Performance: It generates a large volume of fine and stable bubbles, which enhances the washing and cleaning ability of detergents.
- Strong Surface Activity: It reduces surface tension in liquids, helping bubbles to remain stable.
- Good Emulsification Ability: It can disperse oily substances in water, improving the cleaning effect of various products.
- Anti-Static Properties: It helps reduce the impact of static electricity in cleaning and industrial applications.
Applications of 2# Oil Frother
No. 2 oil frother is widely used in various industries, including:
- Daily Cleaning Products: Found in hand soaps, shampoos, and body washes, where it enhances foaming and cleaning effects.
- Industrial Applications: Used in petroleum, textiles, and paper industries for equipment cleaning, emulsification, and flotation processes.
Production and Physical Properties of No. 2 Oil
No. 2 oil is produced by hydrolyzing pine oil with sulfuric acid as a catalyst and Pingpingjia (a surfactant) as an emulsifier.
The primary component is α-terpineol (about 50%), along with diols, hydrocarbons, and other impurities.
Physical Characteristics:
- Appearance: Light yellow oily liquid
- Density: 0.9–0.913 g/cm³
- Solubility: Slightly soluble in water
- Reactivity: Oxidizes in air, increasing viscosity
- Flammability: Highly flammable, should be stored away from fire sources
Precautions and Usage Guidelines
- Optimal Dosage: The recommended dosage is 20–150 g/t, added directly to the flotation slurry. Excessive use can cause bubbles to shrink and become brittle, negatively affecting flotation performance.
- pH Sensitivity: The frothing effect decreases as slurry pH decreases. No. 2 oil is not suitable for separating metal sulfide minerals in low-alkaline media.
- Storage Safety: Since No. 2 oil is flammable, it should be stored away from open flames and handled with proper fire precautions.
Conclusion
No. 2 oil frother is a widely used surfactant with strong foaming, emulsifying, and surface activity properties.
Its chemical composition, production method, and applications make it essential for both cleaning products and industrial processes.
However, careful handling and proper dosage are crucial to maintaining optimal flotation performance and safety.
