Pretreatment and recovery of base metals from oxidised ores by froth flotation technology – A review
Nompumelelo Nkosi, Willie Nheta
Abstract
• The flotation process of partially and fully oxidized base metal sulphides is not efficient. • Mineralogy of oxidised base metal ores and its impact on the flotation process. • Pretreatment processes prior to flotation of partially and fully oxidized base metal sulphide ores. • Pretreatment of oxidized base metal sulphide ores still needs to be greatly improved. Base metals are among the key drivers propelling the economy’s expansion due to their widespread uses and applications. They are used as input factors in the construction of houses, transportation, plants, machinery, pipes, electrical cables, etc. As high-grade base metal sulphide deposits continue to diminish rapidly, the focus is shifting towards recovering these metals from lower grade oxidised and mixed ore deposits. This article critically discusses several research attempts made on the pretreatment of oxidised and mixed ores to increase base metal recoveries by froth flotation, as well as their benefits and drawbacks. Finally, the paper proposes further research and suggest steps forward to pretreatment of oxidised base metals. It is strongly believed that with proper pretreatment of oxidised base metals prior to flotation, when established as a viable technology recognised by industry, will contribute to the sustainability of base metal industry.