shows SEM BSE images and EDS analyses on the concentrate from the flotation of MCC in de-ionised water and saline
water. The particles chosen for EDS analysis were indicated by
the arrows. As shown in Fig. 8, when de-ionised water was used,
clay minerals were recovered to the flotation concentrate in a dispersed form without clear association of clay platelets. However,
when saline water was used, clay minerals were recovered in
either F–F or E–E associated forms. The presence of the clay minerals in these forms was confirmed by the EDS analysis which
detected the Si and Al signals clearly. In the settling tests, E–E association of clay platelets was predicted in de-ionised water. However, this association as a result of the restriction of particle
mobility could not be sustained in the dynamic flotation condition