Processing of Malachite from the Shigar Region of Gilgit-Baltistan by Optimizing Some Operational Parameters of Floatation

Abstract

In this study, optimal operation parameters for the extraction of copper (Cu) from malachite ore of the Shigar region of Gilgit-Baltistan were identified. The effects of some operational parameters on Cu recovery has been identified. The pulp density (25%) and other parameters are kept constant throughout the process. Crushing and grinding were carried out and obtained the desired size range of flotation. The sample of malachite ore has been overwhelmed using roll and jaw crushers. The final product of roll crusher was finer than that of jaw crusher. It has been observed that more fines were obtained with increasing grinding time. After a certain time, there is little effect on grinding. With decreasing particle size, copper recovery increased. At 50 µm the recovery is almost 90% while at 325µm, recovery decreased to 46%. With increasing pH copper recovery is increased and at 12.5% pH, maximum recovery (up to 90%) has been achieved. The optimum parameters for the copper extraction from malachite ore of the Shigar valley are the pH 12.5%, 50-micron particle size and grinding time of 25 minutes.