Influence of operating parameters on the flotation of apatite

Flotation of apatite is complicated, owing to its physicochemical similarity with other minerals in phosphate ores. Despite this, relatively few studies have been done on the effect of operating parameters, such as the mode of milling, pulp conditions and collector dosage on the kinetics of apatite flotation. In this technical note, the results of batch flotation tests and the fitting of a first-order kinetic model to assess the influence of operating variables on the flotation kinetics are discussed. Pulp pH, collector dosage and pulp temperature affected recovery significantly, but the mode of milling (wet or dry) did not. All factors influenced the concentrate grade, except for the collector dosage, while the milling mode was the only factor that did not affect the flotation kinetics significantly.