Flotation chemistry features in bastnaesite flotation with potassium lauryl phosphate

Abstract

Bastnaesite is a major mineral resource of importance in the production of rare earth materials. Present flotation practice uses a reagent schedule which typically includes fatty acid or hydroxamic acid as collector. In this research it was found that potassium lauryl phosphate is an appropriate collector for bastnaesite flotation. Results from contact angle and micro-flotation experiments for bastnaesite are reported using potassium lauryl phosphate as collector. Better bastnaesite flotation is achieved at a low level of lauryl phosphate addition when compared to the use of octyl hydroxamate as collector. Initial evaluation suggests that potassium lauryl phosphate should be a promising collector for bastnaesite flotation.