Abstract
The demand for extracting Rare Earth Elements (REEs) from their deposits is growing significantly around the world since they are essential in many mature and growing industries. This study investigated the elemental and mineralogical composition of a Bulk sample and its potential for rare earth elements (REEs) beneficiation through Wet Gravity Separation (WGS) and Froth Floatation (FF) processes. Results obtained from WDXRF analysis showed that Si, Hf, Ti, Fe and Zr were the major elements present in the Bulk sample, with SiO2 accounting for 64.79 wt%. The TREOs concentration was around 0.90 wt%, dominated by Ce, La, and Nd, with other REEs present in smaller concentrations. XRD analysis indicated that Quartz was the major mineral present in the Bulk sample. WGS and FF were then used to beneficiate the oxides CeO2, La2O3, Nd2O3, Pr6O11, Y2O3, Gd2O3, and Sm2O3. Results showed significant concentration increases of these elements in the WGS concentrate, with high grade and good recoveries achieved for Ce, La, and Nd. Overall, the study provides insights into the potential of WGS and FF as a beneficiation technique for REEs in monazite ore.