Xenotime flotability study

The present investigation aimed at the definition of parameters for the preconcentration of xenotime (yttrium phosphate) with the objective of reducing costs of the further processing stages for yttrium. The sample, xenotime e zircon concentrate, was obtained from the non conductor product of the electrostatic separator of the Pitinga mine, in Amazonas. Microflotation experiments with xenotime and zircon were performed in a modified Hallimond tube in the presence of a commercial iydroxamate as collector and sodium silicate, calcium lignin sulfonate, starch, amylopectin and quebracho as depressants. The best selectivity was achieved with starch and sodium silicate. (author)