Talc separation from talc-carbonate ore to be suitable for different industrial applications

The natural flotation behaviour of pure talc mineral was first studied by measuring its contact angle, flotation recovery and zeta potential. Polypropylene glycol was used as a frother to increase the talc flotation at relatively shorter times. This study was used to beneficiate talc- carbonate ore to obtain talc concentrates suitable for various industrial uses. Effects of pH and frother dosage on the flotation process were studied. A rougher concentrate, with talc grade of ≈ 60 % and recovery of 90%% was obtained. The rougher concentrate product was reground to 100 % -125 μm and floated at the predetermined optimum flotation conditions. Clean talc concentrate at a recovery of 70% with a grade of 93.5 % from an ore containing 48.69 % talc, was obtained.