Abstract: This invention relates to the pH modifier in alkaline froth flotation processes to treat oxide and semi-soluble salt ores, such as phosphates, sulfates, carbonates and halides, to increase the recovery while generally maintaining or improving selectivity, thus the grade of desired minerals. The invented pH modifier is used to replace traditional alkaline pH modifiers—hydroxides, carbonates and bicarbonates, such as sodium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, lime and ammonia in anionic flotation processes. The pH modifier is aqueous solution, comprised of combinations of sodium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, and sodium silicate, along with sulfonated surfactant products, such as sulfonated petroleum oil, fatty acids, alkylates, ethoxylated alcohol ethers, and also sulfosuccinamates; and anionic polymers. The pH modifier is also used as a promoter for anionic collectors and as a depressant for gangue minerals.

Abstract: A process for use in a phosphate ore beneficiation process to minimize the long-term environmental impact of the use of petroleum based hydrocarbon materials mixed with fatty acid based primary floatation reagents for froth flotation in the flotation of phosphate ores, wherein the process comprises substituting the petroleum based hydrocarbon materials with methyl and/or ethyl esters of fatty acids.

Abstract: A process for use in a phosphate ore beneficiation process to minimize the long-term environmental impact of the use of petroleum based hydrocarbon materials mixed with fatty acid based primary floatation reagents for froth flotation in the flotation of phosphate ores, wherein the process comprises substituting the petroleum based hydrocarbon materials with methyl and/or ethyl esters of fatty acids.