Column Flotation of Non-Slimed Jordanian Siliceous Phosphate

In phosphate flotation, it is a standard practice to remove (deslime) fine particles before conducting flotation. Since phosphate matrix is friable, agitating, scrubbing, or grinding causes a significant loss in valuable phosphate; this has an economic and ecological impact on phosphate industry. The aim of this study is to minimise the loss of phosphate slime by conducting column flotation without desliming. Fractional factorial experimental design was used to evaluate flotation performance of non-slimed siliceous phosphate in flotation column. The effect of gas flow rate, feed size (P80), and sodium silicate dosage were statistically evaluated. The results showed that gas flow rate followed by feed size were the most significant parameters. The general trend in flotation results was poor flotation recovery and concentrate grade. However, concentrate grade and flotation recovery were slightly improved when fine feed was used which may be due to the increase in phosphate particles liberation.