Characterization of Daleer Phosphate Rock Properties for Mineral Processin

In this research, characterization studies of sedimentary phosphate rock from Zanjan Dalir area with respect to processing are investigated. According to mineralogical studies, phosphate ore (Collophane 28.13%), sedimentary mineral and the predominant constituents of the gangues were Calcite (43.53%), Quartz and Dolomite (4.65%). Main composition of phosphate rock were P2O5 (11.9% wt), CaO (36.36% wt), SiO2 (24.49% wt) and MgO (1.01% wt). Microscopic studies showed that apatite pletts had inclusions of Calcite and Quartz (about 15-70 microns). Content of inclusions was considerable. Mineralogy texture is very complicated. Liberation degree determined by grain counting (with optic microscope) and sink and float test methods. From The results of liberation degree studies can be inferred that in dimension about 140 microns about 96% of phosphate particles librated. In desliming step about 8.2% of total phosphate was removed. Optimum grinding time to reaching liberation of phosphate particles was obtained about 10 min and 30 second. Organic material determined by heating method (about 1.66% wt). Scanning electron microscopy studies showed that inclusions and organic materials existed. Specific gravity of phosphate particles and gangues difference was low. Based on the mentioned studies, effective method for processing of phosphate minerals from carbonate and silicate impurities is suggested flotation method.