Optimization of dissolution of colemanite ore in potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution (kh2po4)

Abstract

Boron is one of the most important richnesses of Turkey which has approximately 72% of the known boron reserves globally. The production of boron compounds has essentially expanded recently due to increasing demands. Colemanite rich in boron is a common raw material to produce boron components and the first step of this process is the dissolution of colemanite by using different leaching solutions. The main aim of the study is to investigate the optimization of dissolution of colemanite in potassium dihydrogen phosphate ( KH 2 PO 4 ) solution. Taguchi method was used to determine the optimum conditions while effectiveness of the parameters were identified by variance analysis. Reaction temperature (T), KH 2 PO 4 concentration (C), stirring speed (W), solid to liquid ratio (S/L), and particle size (D) of colemanite were selected as parameters affecting the rate of colemanite dissolution. The optimum conditions for these parameters were determined. As a result of the experiment made under optimum conditions, both 98% of B 2 O 3 passed into the solution and potassium borate by-product were produced by crystallization.