Chemical additives for wet grinding of minerals

Abstract This paper reviews the recent work on the use of low molecular weight anionic polymers as grinding additives for wet grinding of minerals. Laboratory results on the increase of breakage rates are given, and conclusions drawn regarding the mechanism of the effect. An experimental procedure is given for testing additives in a laboratory ball mill. Application of the additives to industrial ball mill and rod mill circuits is discussed. Experience suggests that additive costs of 12 – 30 c (U.S., 1980) per ton of dry ore are economically justifiable.