Effective mining operations with KimaCell® CMC

KimaCell® Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) offers several advantages for enhancing the effectiveness of mining operations, particularly in the areas of ore processing, tailings management, and dust control. CMC, a water-soluble polymer derived from cellulose, possesses unique properties that make it a valuable additive in various mining applications. Here’s how KimaCell® CMC can contribute to more efficient and sustainable mining operations:

Ore Processing:

1. Ore Flotation: KimaCell® CMC is often used as a depressant or dispersant in mineral flotation processes. It selectively adsorbs onto mineral surfaces, preventing unwanted minerals from attaching to air bubbles and improving the selectivity and efficiency of flotation separation.
2. Thickening and Dewatering: KimaCell® CMC can be added to mineral slurries to enhance thickening and dewatering processes in ore processing plants. It improves the settling characteristics of mineral particles, resulting in faster settling rates, higher solids content in the underflow, and reduced water consumption.
3. Tailings Management: KimaCell® CMC is used in tailings management to improve the rheological properties of tailings slurries, preventing settling and segregation during transport and deposition. It helps maintain the stability of tailings dams and reduces the risk of environmental contamination.

Dust Control:

1. Road Stabilization: KimaCell® CMC is applied to unpaved roads and haulage routes in mining operations to control dust emissions and stabilize road surfaces. It forms a thin film on the road surface, binding loose particles together and preventing them from becoming airborne.
2. Stockpile Management: KimaCell® CMC can be sprayed onto ore stockpiles and storage piles to control dust emissions and mitigate wind erosion. It helps maintain the integrity of stockpiles and reduces the loss of valuable minerals due to dust dispersion.

Environmental Management:

1. Water Treatment: KimaCell® CMC is used in water treatment processes at mining sites to remove suspended solids, organic matter, and heavy metals from process water and wastewater. It acts as a flocculant and coagulant aid, facilitating the precipitation and settlement of contaminants.
2. Revegetation: KimaCell® CMC can be incorporated into soil stabilization and erosion control measures to promote vegetation growth and revegetation of disturbed mining sites. It improves soil moisture retention, enhances seed germination, and protects newly planted vegetation from erosion.

Health and Safety:

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): KimaCell® CMC is used in the production of protective coatings for PPE, such as gloves, masks, and clothing worn by miners. It enhances the durability, flexibility, and barrier properties of PPE materials, providing effective protection against hazardous substances.
2. Fire Retardancy: KimaCell® CMC can be added to fire suppression systems and fire-resistant coatings used in mining equipment and facilities. It helps reduce the flammability of materials, inhibit the spread of fires, and protect personnel and assets from fire-related hazards.

Conclusion:

KimaCell® CMC offers a range of benefits for enhancing the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of mining operations across various stages of the mining value chain. Whether used in ore processing, tailings management, dust control, environmental management, or health and safety applications, KimaCell® CMC contributes to improved process performance, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced worker safety in the mining industry. Its versatility, reliability, and compatibility with existing mining processes make it a valuable additive for addressing key challenges and optimizing mining operations.