Separating Mica from Quartz Using a Hydraulic Classification Column
In this video, I demonstrate how to separate mica from quartz using a hydraulic classification column — a water-based system that separates minerals based on their settling velocity and particle shape rather than just density.
First, the rock sample was crushed and screened into two size fractions. Then, the material was fed into the column, where circulating water helped classify the particles.
Because mica has a flat, platy shape and larger surface area, it tends to stay suspended and move upward with the water flow. Meanwhile, quartz and other heavier, more compact particles settle down and exit from the lower outlet.
This setup is useful for preliminary mineral separation and sample preparation in mineralogical and metallurgical studies.
🔹 Equipment: Hydraulic separation column (water circulation system)
🔹 Purpose: Shape- and settling velocity–based separation
🔹 Samples: Pegmatite fragments containing mica and quartz
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