A Review of Flotation Separation of Mg Carbonates (Dolomite and Magnesite)

It is well documented that flotation has high economic viability for the beneficiation of valuable minerals when their main ore bodies contain magnesium (Mg) carbonates such as dolomite and magnesite. Flotation separation of Mg carbonates from their associated valuable minerals (AVMs) presents sever...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Darius G. Wonyen, Varney Kromah, Borbor Gibson, Solomon Nah, Saeed Chehreh Chelgani
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2018-08-01
Series:Minerals
Subjects:
Online Access:http://www.mdpi.com/2075-163X/8/8/354
Description
Summary:It is well documented that flotation has high economic viability for the beneficiation of valuable minerals when their main ore bodies contain magnesium (Mg) carbonates such as dolomite and magnesite. Flotation separation of Mg carbonates from their associated valuable minerals (AVMs) presents several challenges, and Mg carbonates have high levels of adverse effects on separation efficiency. These complexities can be attributed to various reasons: Mg carbonates are naturally hydrophilic, soluble, and exhibit similar surface characteristics as their AVMs. This study presents a compilation of various parameters, including zeta potential, pH, particle size, reagents (collectors, depressant, and modifiers), and bio-flotation, which were examined in several investigations into separating Mg carbonates from their AVMs by froth flotation.
ISSN:2075-163X