The measurement and the prediction of bubble–particle attachment
time are very important since the information could potentially
be used in the future optimisation, modelling and
simulation of flotation circuits. However, the prediction ofbubble–particle attachment time of real ore particles is very
difficult since the surface chemistry of bubbles and real composite
particles cannot be described from first principles and hence, the
real value lies in ascertaining whether it is possible to establish
an empirical model that links bubble–particle attachment time
with flotation data. However, the literature does not provide an
empirical model describing the relationship between bubble–
particle attachment time and flotation data. For that reason, the
main objective in this work is to investigate possible relationships
between the bubble–particle attachment time and the degree of
liberation of a copper-sulphide ore as well as to develop an
empirical model which can successfully predict bubble–particle
attachment time for an industrial system.