Patent ID: 6072140
Filing Date: 2000-06-06
Classification: B03C

Abstract:
A method for separating particles including the steps of(a) providing comingled particles including(i) a first group of particles each having a selected weight and triboelectric propensity, and(ii) a second group of particles each having a selected weight and triboelectric propensity, said weight of each of said particles in said second group being less than the weight of each of said particles in said first group of particles, said triboelectric propensity of said particles in said second group being greater than said triboelectric propensity of said particles in said first group;(b) electrically charging a surface to attract and hold particles in said second group;(c) contacting said surface with said comingled particles;(d) moving said surface such that said particles in said first group fall off said surface under the force of gravity while said particles in said second group remain on said surface; and,(e) neutralizing the electric charge on said surface such that said particles in said second group can fall off said surface under the force of gravity.