Enhanced Recovery of Iron Values from Low-Grade Ores and Tailings through Reverse Cationic Flotation

Abstract

India is well-known for its rich deposits of high-quality hematite ores, making it a vital player in the global market. As the availability of high-grade iron ores diminishes, the need to process low-grade ores, fines and slimes through beneficiation is becoming increasingly important to meet market requirements. The creation of fines and slimes leads to a mineral loss of about 20 to 25% of the overall mineral value during processing. This research investigates the beneficiation of iron ore tailings using reverse cationic flotation, with Sokem reagent acting as a collector and starch serving as a depressant. A series of comparative assessments involving magnetic separation and gravity separation were performed. An initial mineralogical examination showed that hematite and goethite were the main iron-bearing minerals, accompanied by quartz and kaolinite as significant gangue materials. The selective flocculation technique proved effective, enhancing the iron grade from 41.05% to 57.03% Fe, with a recovery rate of 47.35%. After desliming, the outcomes improved further, yielding 58.25% Fe and a recovery of 29.00%. These results underline the potential for successful beneficiation of iron ore tailings, offering valuable insights for enhancing the recovery of high-grade iron from low-grade ores and reducing mineral losses during processing. © 2025, World Researchers Associations. All rights reserved.