Comparison of the influence of polyacrylamide and sodium oleate on selective flocculation of goethite from sludge

The paper represents a part of research conducted with the aim of examining the possibility of applying selective flocculation of goethite from sludge that occurs in the process of iron ore production. The aim of this study was to compare the influence of polyacrylamide and sodium oleate as a flocculant on the settling behavior of goethite under different conditions. The paper presents the results of the research on the influence of the flocculants based on polyacrylamide and sodium oleate, as well as pH values on the settling rate of a natural goethite sample. The results showed that the settling rate of goethite was influenced by pH value and the type of flocculant, while the concentration of flocculant did not significantly affect the settling rate. Measurements of zeta potential showed the effect of flocculants on the surface of the goethite.