Towards the efficient flotation of monazite from silicate-rich tailings with fatty acids collectors using a lanthanum salt as a selective phosphate activator

The exploitation of massive rare-earth element (REE) deposits is frequently contested because the pollution generated by heavy mining operations and REE extractive metallurgy operations. In an effort to minimise environmental footprint production meet increasing demand for these elements, mine wastes tailings are attracting attention as alternative primary sources. However, residues contain small amounts monazite [(Ce,La,Nd)PO4] in silicate-rich gangues, rendering efficient selective recovery via current flotation routes difficult. Herein, we investigated use LaCl3 activator promote adsorption fatty acid collectors on surface phosphate minerals, thus improving performance. Bench-scale tests were performed a low monazite-grade, residue revealed that dosage (about 1 g t−1) selectively enhanced floatability gangue minerals. We found influence performance depends dosage, collector method addition reagents pulp. mineral composition products was determined liberation analysis (MLA), which indicated higher concentrations lanthanum ions rutile aluminium-rich reducing selectivity separation. This study stepping stone towards development new practice with environmentally friendly may render REE-grade commodity.