Particle collection within the Jameson cell downcomer

Since the invention of the Jameson cell in 1986 various mechanisms have been postulated for particle collection within the cell's downcomer. Possible mechanisms include thin film migration, instantaneous collection, mixing zone collection, residence time dependence and bubble surface area flux. The limited amount of investigation to date has not provided sufficient evidence to allow one mechanism to be supported over the others. A summary of the postulated mechanisms is presented along with the background to their formulation. They are assessed on the basis of available knowledge and categorized according to specific operating parameters within the Jameson cell downcomer. In addition, relationships between operating variables and various hydrodynamic zones within the downcomer are discussed. A review of how these mechanisms relate to flotation operations is conducted for coal flotation, base-metal ore flotation and the removal of organic matter from solution