Column versus Mechanical Flotation for Calcareous Phosphate Fines Upgrading

Abstract

Froth flotation, either conventional or column, has been studied for phosphate upgrading. In this study, a reverse flotation scheme using either mechanical or column flotation was applied for the beneficiation of Al-Jalamid Saudi phosphate ores. It is classified as a sedimentary phosphate with calcite as main impurity (calcareous type).

The effects of different operating parameters were evaluated for both conventional and column flotation. A mixture of oleic acid and kerosene is used as a collector, sulfuric acid as pH regulator and sodium sulfate as phosphate depressant. The results of this study revealed that both conventional and column flotation technology can be adopted for this type of ore. A high grade concentrate of 35% P₂O₅ can be achieved at a high recovery of 95%.

Comparing the results of the both techniques indicates the superiority of column at fine sizes. However, the mechanical cells are more suitable at high solid liquid ratios because of good particle dispersion and good mixing in the mechanical cells.

Keywords:

• calcareous phosphate
• carbonate removal
• column flotation
• flotation
• mechanical flotation

Acknowledgments

The authors gratefully acknowledge the Phosphate and Mineral Processing Chair, King Saud University for supporting this research work.

Notes

*L.O.I. = Loss on ignition.