Tests on the reverse froth flotation of rougher-stage iron ore were executed. Such tests were made for three different distributions of silica particle size (below 75 µm, global and above 75 µm). Collector dosage (50 and 70g/t), pulp density (40 and 50%) and the silica content (20 and 30%) were modified, resulting in twenty-four tests. Distribution of a coarser silica particle size presented lower results of silica rejection. In comparison to other silica particle sizes, silica rejection is increased with the utilization of finer silica particle size distribution in the process
Froth flotation; iron ore; particle size; silica rejection