Hydrogen-based mineral phase transformation of bastnaesite: Detailed assessment of physicochemical properties and flotation behavior

Abstract

Iron-bearing rare earth ores are valuable mineral resources, and the hydrogen-based mineral phase transformation (HMPT) process has significant development potential. In this study, the changes in physicochemical properties and flotation behavior of bastnaesites subjected to HMPT were investigated. The results show that bastnaesite decomposed slowly below 600 °C, but increased roasting temperature and time enhanced the decomposition, resulting in a roasted product with over 85 % rare earth oxide (REO) grade. HMPT also increased the initial pH of the flotation pulp from about 7.5 to 11.0 and increased La and Ce ion concentrations. By increasing the dosage of SHA, flotation recoveries comparable to the raw ore can be achieved. The HMPT process converted bastnaesite to REOF, which formed complex phases such as Ce7O12 and REF3 when exposed to air. This process resulted in significant damage to the particle structure, increased porosity, reduced geometric particle size, and improved wettability. After HMPT, Ce on the particle surface existed predominantly as Ce4+, which formed Ce(OH)4 precipitation during flotation, inhibiting SHA adsorption. The increased particle porosity facilitated deeper SHA penetration and greater adsorption, resulting in higher SHA dosage compared to the raw ore.