Abstract:
Manganese is an important strategic mineral resource. The endowment characteristics of manganese ore resources in China are introduced. The mineral properties of rhodochrosite and the types of associated gangue minerals are briefly described. The flotation behavior and separation difficulties of rhodochrosite from calcite, magnesite, siderite and quartz are analyzed. Furthermore, the research progress, characteristics and applicability of gravity separation, magnetic separation and flotation are reviewed. The research application, action mechanism and existing problems of rhodochrosite collectors and inhibitors are discussed. And, it is pointed out that high-efficiency gravity separation equipment, magnetic separation equipment, new collectors with good selectivity and high-efficiency inhibitors are the main directions for the development of rhodochrosite beneficiation technology. In addition, reviews the research status and applicability of pyrometallurgical manganese extraction process of rhodochrosite and hydrometallurgical manganese extraction technologies such as direct acid leaching, reduction leaching, roasting leaching and bioleaching. Among them, the direct acid leaching method will still be the main means of rhodochrosite leaching production in the future for the reason of the simple production process, mature technology and less environmental pollution. Some difficult-to-use manganese ores are difficult to obtain good technical indicators and economic benefits by separate beneficiation or metallurgical methods, and often need to be treated by a combination of beneficiation and metallurgy. The combined process of rhodochrosite beneficiation and metallurgy can realize the complementary advantages between processes and improve the comprehensive index of beneficiation and metallurgy. Finally, the main research and development direction of rhodochrosite beneficiation and metallurgy technology in the future are prospected. The purpose is to provide reference for the utilization and research direction of manganese ore resources.