Optimization of effective parameters in flotation of fluorite from lowgrade ore without frother

Abstract

This study investigates the flotation behavior of low-grade fluorite ore from the Tuye Darvar Damghan mine. Characterization techniques, including XRD, optical microscopy, and SEM-EDX, were employed to analyze the mineralogical and textural properties of the ore. Flotation experiments were conducted using a Denver cell to evaluate the effect of various parameters, including particle size, solid percent, collector concentration (sodium oleate), depressant concentration (sodium silicate), and pH, on the recovery and grade of fluorite concentrate. The results demonstrate that optimal flotation conditions were achieved at a pH of 8, with a particle size of 75 μm, a solid percent of 20%, a collector concentration of 600 g/t, and a depressant concentration of 100 g/t. Under these conditions and through a seven-step cleaning process, a fluorite concentrate with a grade of 91.5% and a recovery of 16.75% was obtained. This study provides valuable insights into the flotation behavior of low-grade fluorite and can serve as a guide for optimizing industrial-scale flotation processes.