Flotation upgrading total rare earth oxides from roasted bastnaesite concentrate

Abstract

Bastnaesite (REFCO₃) is an important principal resource of light Rare Earth and has the largest proven reserve among all Rare Earth minerals in the World. Based on the characteristics of easy decomposition, bastnaesite is calcined with CaO to produce Rare Earth oxides (REO), which can be obtained by flotation methods. The ability to recover REO from a roasted mix depends on several factors, in which the selectivity of the collector plays an important role.

 Vietnam has bastnaesite Rare Earth resources and has potential for exploitation. Processing bastnaesite by chemical methods has disadvantages such as high cost and negative impact on the environment. Research on obtaining REO from bastnaesite by physical methods is a new trend nowadays. In this paper, we present some research results obtained when coasting Dong Pao bastnaesite concentrate (30-35% REO) at 650^oC with CaO in appropriate rate then direct flotation of REO. The final product obtained is concentrate contening REO over 60% and flotation recovery achieved above 80% REO.