Effects of ultrasonic treatment on the flotation behavior of magnesite and dolomite in a sodium oleate system

The effects of ultrasonic treatment on the flotation behavior of magnesite and dolomite in a sodium oleate system were investigated, and ultrasonic flotation separation tests of magnesite and dolomite mixed ore were conducted. The mechanism through which ultrasonic treatment enhanced the flotation separation of magnesite and dolomite was analyzed via zeta potential analysis, adsorption capacity measurements, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The test results revealed that ultrasonic treatment enhanced the flotation recovery of magnesite and dolomite. Simultaneous ultrasonic treatment and flotation improved the flotation separation efficiency of magnesite and dolomite, with the flotation recovery of magnesite concentrate reaching 91.06%. Moreover, ultrasonic treatment increased the adsorption sites on the mineral surface, facilitating easier binding of the reagent to the mineral. Ultrasonic treatment also weakened the interaction between magnesite and dolomite.