Selective flotation of Mount Weld phosphate ore

Summary

This report describes the use of flotation as a method of upgrading Mt Weld phosphate ore.

The QEM SEM technique was used to help understand the flotation behaviour of the various minerals, particles and composite particles in the ore.

A key feature of the flotation was the use of sodium silicate as a selective depressant for the iron oxides.

Keywords: phosphate, ores, flotation, separation, iron, sodium silicate