Effects of hydrocyclone process variables for treating bentonite clays

Recently, new deposits of smectite clays were discovered in the state of Paraiba, located in the districts of Cubati, Olivedos, Sossego and Pedra Lavrada. Preliminary studies have shown that these deposits contain high contents of accessory minerals in their mineralogical composition such as mica, free silica and carbonates. The presence of these minerals results in very limited industrial use, and studies on treatment of these clays is necessary to reduce these contaminants. Recent studies have also shown that the use of a hydrocyclone would be a viable alternative because it requires low investment in installation and maintenance and is being widely used in the mineral industry. The aim of this work was to study the hydrocyclone process variables for treating smectite clays of a new deposit in the state of Paraiba. The smectite clay was physically, chemically and mineralogically characterized before and after hydrocycloning by the following techniques: particle size analysis by laser diffraction, X-ray diffraction, chemical analysis by X-ray fluorescence and thermal analysis. The clay was dispersed at a concentration of 4% and used with sodium hexametaphosphate dispersant under stirring for 24 h. The process variables used in hydrocyclone were pressure along with vortex and apex openings. The results led to an increase in clay fraction concentration, reducing the average equivalent particle size diameter and the accessory minerals. (author)