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Optimizing Froth Flotation Techniques for Sustainable Beneficiation of Spodumene and Lepidolite in Zimbabwe: Enhancing Lithium Recovery for Battery-Grade Material Production

Farai Katsande*, Phiri**, Mufaro S Nyambara***

*-*** Harare Institute of Technology, Harare, Zimbabwe.

Periodicity:October - December'2024
DOI : https://doi.org/10.26634/jms.12.3.21739

Abstract

Zimbabwe hosts Africa's largest hard-rock lithium reserves, presenting a significant opportunity for local battery-grade lithium production. This study focuses on optimizing froth flotation for sustainable beneficiation of spodumene and lepidolite, primarily from the Bikita lithium deposit. Experimental results confirmed froth flotation as a highly effective method, achieving Li₂O concentrate grades up to 5.8% from ores initially averaging 1–3.2% Li₂O. Anionic collectors such as oleic acid and sodium oleate were evaluated, with oleic acid proving more effective for spodumene and sodium oleate for lepidolite. Optimal flotation conditions included particle sizes of 45–90 microns, a pH of 10, and a collector dosage of 250 mg/L. Recovery rates exceeded 90%, highlighting froth flotation's potential for high-efficiency, battery- grade lithium recovery in Zimbabwe.

Keywords

Lithium, Spodumene, Lepidolite, Flotation, Anionic Collector, Zimbabwe.

How to Cite this Article?

Katsande, F., Phiri, and Nyambara, M. S. (2024). Optimizing Froth Flotation Techniques for Sustainable Beneficiation of Spodumene and Lepidolite in Zimbabwe: Enhancing Lithium Recovery for Battery-Grade Material Production. i-manager’s Journal on Material Science, 12(3), 31-40. https://doi.org/10.26634/jms.12.3.21739

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