Packed column flotation model for the selective separation of contaminated dredged sediment

This study was performed to use the packed column flotation process as a pretreatment of the contaminated dredged sediment in lake, river, or estuaries for the purpose of reduction of the volume to be treated. Packed column flotation model was presented to predict the performance of flotation separation, especially, focusing on removal efficiency of contaminants. Using packed column flotation model, the effects of principal operating conditions were investigated on the removal efficiency of contaminants. Air flowrate, wash water flowrate, and contaminant contents and solids concentration with a series of attachment rate constants of uncontaminated soil and contaminants in sediment were selected as the operating parameters. Model prediction for the flotation process may be helpful to the design and operation of packed flotation column for the practical use.