SPLITT cell separation of polydisperse suspended particles of environmental interest

Split-new thin (SPLITT) cell, continuous two-way separation has been investigated for the separation of particulate matter of environmental interest. The basic SPLITT cell operation equation is reconsidered and the effects of the particle porosity, dimension, shape and density are discussed. Suspensions of porous silica, kaolin and montmorillonite in the submicron to micron diameter range were separated by means of the SPLITT cell with appropriate carrier composition. The results of the separations were checked by use of optical and scanning-electron microscopy and are discussed with reference to the basic equations for SPLITT cell working conditions. Optimum results were in agreement with the theoretical expressions as long as the pertinent SPLITT separation expression was employed. Quantitative results from SPLITT cell separations were compared with those obtained by the classical static sedimentation procedure, the agreement and discrepancies found ape discussed.