Filtration of fine mineral particles assisted by nanobubbles

•The effect of nanobubbles (NBs) on the filtration of fine mineral particles was evaluated.•Ultrafine and coarse iron ore tailings and different sizes of quartz samples were used.•Filtration time of the ultrafine tailings decreased by 30% in the presence of NBs.•The positive effect of NBs on filtrate rate was confirmed with hydrophobic fine and mid-sized quartz.•Mechanism of NBs enhancing hydrophobicity of solids is responsible for improving filtrate flow.