A Review of Fatty Acid Collectors: Implications for Spodumene Flotation

Increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries has led to the development of several new lithium mineral projects around globe. Some major processing challenges these face are similarities in gangue and value behaviour poor selectivity froth flotation. Unsaturated anionic fatty acids primary spodumene flotation collectors, known be strong collectors with solubility selectivity. Fundamental research consensus is that driven by a acid–anion complex adsorbed at cationic aluminum sites. However, many small-scale studies result recoveries, prompting researchers investigate activators or mixed anionic/cationic improve performance. Testwork real ore rare recent literature, but older publications from deposits prove can successfully concentrate spodumene. The process generally includes alkaline scrubbing, high-density acid conditioning, pH 7.5–8.5 500–750 g/t collector. collector speciation notably sensitive pulp conditions this pH; possibly resulting unstable circuits inconsistent results. This paper reviews properties available industrial fundamental research. We aim provide insight understanding particle-collector interactions help bridge gap between processes which will needed de-risk growing industry.