Effect of using calcined / uncalcined beige phosphates mixtures on reverse flotation efficiency, from Kef Essennoun deposit, Algeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17721/1728-2713.114.12Keywords:
sedimentary phosphate, reverse flotation, calcination pre-treatment, P₂O₅ recovery, tailings valorization, AlgeriaAbstract
Background. Sedimentary phosphate ores from Algeria often suffer significant P₂O₅ losses during conventional beneficiation. Integrating calcination as a pre-treatment step may enhance reverse flotation selectivity and reduce valuable material loss in tailings.
Methods. Proportional blends (0–100 % calcined) of beige phosphate from the Kef Essennoun deposit were characterized using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS), automated P₂O₅ analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and SEM/EDS. Reverse flotation tests were conducted to evaluate P₂O₅ recovery and impurity rejection in froth products (tailings).
Results. Increasing the calcined fraction significantly improved flotation selectivity: P₂O₅ recovery in tailings decreased from 3.92 % (100 % uncalcined) to 2.07 % (100 % calcined), while MgO and CO₂ contents increased in the froth, confirming effective gangue removal. Mineralogical analyses revealed that calcination decomposes carbonates, removes organic coatings, and liberates apatite grains, enhancing hydrophilicity and sink recovery. The 100 % calcined feed yielded the lowest P₂O₅ loss with a concentrate grade of ~33.8 % P₂O₅.
Conclusion. Combining calcination with reverse flotation optimizes phosphate beneficiation by minimizing useful material loss, reducing reagent consumption, and generating tailings suitable for cement industry valorization. This integrated approach supports sustainable resource management within a circular economy framework.
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