Synoptic view on P ore beneficiation techniques

Abstract

Phosphorite mineral is the most important natural source of phosphorus (P) which has several applications in agriculture (as fertilizers), pottery, and animal feed. Phosphorite exploitation especially agricultural consumption majorly relies on the availability of phosphorous (P). Mostly, the plant availability of P in soil is influenced by associated mineral such as it depends on Magnesium (Mg) and Calcium (Ca) when soil has pH > 8 and by Iron (Fe) and Aluminum (Al) when soil has pH < 5.5. Therefore, quality of phosphorite is defined by all these factors. However, high-quality reserves are depleting due to extensive utilization; compelling to the use medium to low grade phosphaorite reserves. Therefore, the beneficiation of phosphorite mineral is a key to explore the potential of these existing medium to low grade reserves. Numerous beneficiation processes have been explored extensively in order to achieve the desired quality index. The most widely used beneficiation techniques are flotation, direct carbonation, electrostatic up-gradation, calcination, and leaching/bioleaching. Bioleaching has environmental benefits and electrostatic up-gradation can achieve the highest quartz removal efficiency, although this is an energy-intensive process. Flotation technology is appropriate for large-scale production and has additional advantages of being economical and robust. However, it is a complex process and depends on the mineral’s superficial properties; therefore in-depth study of surface chemistry of particular resource and careful design of surface modifier is vital for its economical development. This manuscript is an attempt to explore the previous phosphorite beneficiation efforts with an attempt to discuss the future requirements.