Amine-Functionalized Particles for Tailings Settling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for removing finely dispersed particulate matter from fluid streams, such as those in the oil sands industry, are inefficient, requiring large volumes of water and energy, and result in significant water waste and environmental liabilities due to slow settling processes in tailings ponds.
Innovation Solution
The use of modified particles functionalized with amine groups or tethering materials like chitosan, BPEI, and PDAC to form complexes with particulate matter, enhancing sedimentation and dewatering through activation and tethering processes, allowing for efficient removal via filtration, centrifugation, or gravitational settling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional flocculation or coagulation methods are used to remove fine particles, then particle aggregation occurs, but significant water remains trapped with sedimented particles and mechanical stability is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces modified particles functionalized with amine groups as intermediary agents that bridge fine colloidal particles and larger particle aggregates. These modified particles adsorb onto fine particles through electrostatic attraction and hydrophobic interactions, then attach to larger particle structures, enabling water displacement and mechanical stabilization without trapping significant water in the sediment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies particle surface properties by functionalizing particles with amine groups, changing their electrostatic charge and hydrophobicity parameters. This modification enables the particles to interact differently with fine colloidal matter, improving aggregation efficiency while allowing water to be released from the sediment structure
2Productivity
If ballasted flocculation systems are used, then some particle removal occurs, but the system is inefficient in sufficiently removing fine particles produced in oil sands mining
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality modification by functionalizing specific particles with amine groups at controlled concentrations and distributions. This creates localized zones of enhanced electrostatic attraction and hydrophobic interaction that specifically target fine colloidal particles, making the removal process both faster and more reliable for fine particle removal
3Stability of the object's composition
If tailings are stored in ponds for long-term settling, then particles eventually settle out, but the process takes years and water is unsuitable for recycling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by adding modified particles functionalized with amine groups to tailings before discharge to tailings ponds. This pre-treatment initiates aggregation and water displacement processes in advance, so that when tailings are deposited, settling occurs rapidly rather than requiring years of pond storage. The modified particles create structures that facilitate quick water release and particle consolidation
4Productivity
If large volumes of flocculant and coagulant are used for treatment, then particle removal is enhanced, but the cost becomes prohibitive for large volumes of wastewater
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by using modified particles that can autonomously aggregate fine particles through their functionalized surfaces. The amine-functionalized particles self-assemble with fine colloidal matter through electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions, reducing or eliminating the need for additional flocculants and coagulants. This self-aggregating capability maintains high particle removal capacity while dramatically reducing chemical consumption
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach significantly accelerates the settlement of fine particles, reduces water usage, and produces a mechanically stable solid that can be recycled or reused, while also clarifying water for further industrial use, thereby reducing the environmental impact of tailings ponds.
Implementation Method 1
the modified particle complexes with the particulate matter within the fluid to form a removable complex therein
Implementation Method 2
the particle functionalized by attachment of at least one amine functional group
Implementation Method 3
removing the removable complex from the fluid... by centrifugation, gravitational settling and/or skimming
Implementation Method 4
removing the removable complex from the fluid... by centrifugation
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are systems for removing particulate matter from a fluid, comprising a particle functionalized by attachment of at least one activating group or amine functional group, wherein the modified particle complexes with the particulate matter within the fluid to form a removable complex therein. The particulate matter has preferably been contacted, complexed or reacted with a tethering agent. The system is particularly advantageous to removing particulate matter from a tailing solution.