Applications of chelating agents in mineral processing

Chelatang agents, because of their metal specificity, can function as effective mineral processing reagents. A brief review of the work carried out in this area is presented. Some of the salient features of mineral flotation and flocculation with chehting-type reagents, such as bulk us. surface chelation, the role of pH, mineral solubility, solution chemistry of reagents, and temperature, are illustrated with appropriate examples. The problems associated with the commercialization of chelating reagents for ore beneficiation and the research efforts required in this area are also discussed.