Separating Particles in a Mixture – Learn the Methods
There are literally hundreds of different methods one can use to break down a mixture into particles. A particle is a very small portion of matter and a mixture is a substance of two or more compounds and/or elements that have been ‘mixed’ together. Now let’s explain a few ways to scientifically separate a mixture into individual particles with a few examples of each method.
In a laboratory or business, the need often arises to remove certain particles from a mixture. There are predominately three methods to do this: magnetic attraction, filtration (or sifting), and distillation or boiling point. All three methods are very effective, but each require different techniques to reach the common goal.
Magnetic Attraction
When using magnetic attraction, the concept is to use magnetism to separate particles based on the polarity and magnetic force that attract or oppose the individual particles. An example of this would be removing iron from sand in water. This method works well but only with particles that are attracted or opposed to magnetism, like iron, cobalt and nickel. Magnetism is very expensive but works exceptionally well when used with the correct elements.
Filtration
The second method used for separation of particles is a filtration or sifting of larger particles from smaller particles. This involves separating mixtures of un-dissolved solids from a liquid. The technique is applied by adding liquid to an un-dissolved solid (mixture) and dissolving the solid. The liquid is then run through holes in filter paper or a sieve to separate the solids into different size holes in the paper from the liquid. The larger particles are too big and get stuck, while the smaller pieces flow freely into their own container. An example of this method would be a reverse osmosis water purifier. The unclean water is run through a membrane(s) that separate the pure water from most other elements, creating clean water. This process is easier and less expensive than other methods.
Distillation (Boiling Point)
The remaining method used for particle separation is distillation or boiling point. This principle is based on the fact that different substances turn to steam at different temperatures. A mixture heated to a certain temperature will cause the elements to break down – at different times – and then the steam can be categorized into different containers to separate the mixtures. Temperature tells what type of vapor enters each condenser. An example of this technique would be removing the salt from a salt water solution. The salt can easily be separated from the water by heat. Once heat is applied and the water boils away, only the salt remains. Based on what elements are in the mixture requiring separation, this method is very practical and fast.
All of the methods work well as long as they are applied to the correct mixture. Individual preference with each technique will vary based on equipment and time available.
Sources: Wiki.Answers.com, MikeCurtis.org.uk, Slideshare.net
About the Author: Will Shambley is the owner of New England Powder Processing, a particle separation company in New England. His facilities can manage the separation, mixing, blending and grinding of various particles and substances. For an analysis of how New England Powder Processing can help your manufacturing company, please call (978) 930-0637.
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