Use of Multi-Anionic Sodium Tripolyphosphate to Enhance Dispersion of Concentrated Kaolin Slurries in Seawater

This research aims to analyze the impact of sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) as a rheological modifier concentrated kaolin slurries in seawater at pH 8, which is characteristic copper sulfide processing operations. The dispersion phenomenon was analyzed through chord length measurements using focused beam reflectance measurement (FBRM) technique, complementing size distributions unweighted and square-weighted modes. reduction properties significant, decreasing from 231 Pa reagent-free environment 80 after application STPP. A frequency sweep linear viscoelastic regime indicated that by applying dosage 0.53 kg/t STPP, pulp before yielding increases its phase angle, liquid-like character. Measurements verified particles, showed an apparent increase proportion fine particles coarser aggregates when STPP applied. zeta potential suggested high anionic charge reagent (pentavalent) electrostatic repulsions between overcoming effect cations seawater. results are relevant for mining industry, especially deposits have contents complex gangues, such clays, properties. energy costs water consumption needed pumping tailings thickeners tailing storages facilities. strategies allow improvement fluidity deformation generate slack order maximize recovery thickening stages.