Mechanism of micro/nano-bubble formation and cavitation effect on bubbles size distribution in flotation

摘要

In this study, micro/nano-bubble generated by cavitation effect as a promoting factor for flotation was investigated using the atomic force microscope (AFM). Hydrodynamic cavitation tests were performed with a venturi bubble generator. Additionally, bubble size distribution (BSD) under the hydrodynamic cavitation effect was also studied at different water flow speed conditions. Dozens of nanometers height bubbles attached to the hydrophobic substrates were detected. Besides, the cavitation cloud grew thicker with the flow velocity increasing from 26.52 m/sec to 53.04 m/sec, near the venturi tube nozzle. All results showed the importance of the cavitation effect on the micro/nano-bubbles formation and the BSD in flotation.