Selective Dispersion and Flocculation in Alumina Hematite Mineral Suspensions using Polymeric Reagents, U.S.-India Collaborative project, Award in U.S. and India Currencies

9415417 Somasundaran Description: This project supports collaboration between Dr. P. Somasundaran of the School of Mining at Columbia University and Dr. Pradip of the Tata Research, Development & Design Centre in Pune, India. An integrated approach is proposed to develop an accurate understanding of the mechanisms involved to alleviate the problems associated with separation of fines and ultrafines from raw materials. It is planned to investigate selective flocculation/dispersion of hematite- alumina system of fines and ultrafines in the presence of polymeric reagents. Emphasis will be on the identification of mechanisms by which interactions between reagents at the interface control selectivity. A multi-pronged approach using diffuse reflectance infra-red Fourier transform (DRIFT) spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, electron spin resonance spectroscopy along with conventional techniques of electrokinetics, adsorption, flocculation and wetting will be employed. Scope: The project brings together two well regarded laboratories in India and the U.S. to conduct research in an important area of mineral processing. The scientists have complementary capabilities and resources and also have excellent track record of research. Students from the two countries will be involved in the research. The project meets INT objectives for enhancing U.S.-foreign collaboration in areas of interest to both sides. ***