| Abstract Scope |
Apatite (Ca10(PO4)6(F, Cl, OH)2 minerals are known geological host to rare-earths and actinides. However, conventional apatite conversion to phosphoric acid via the wet-acid process does not typically recover all these valuable elements, with reportedly 55-66% ending in the waste product. Carbo-sulfidation is herein investigated as an alternative method for apatite conversion that could allow for dual recovery of phosphorus and those elements. Experiments conducted on a natural apatite sample reveal production of mixed sulfides, including Ca-, La-, Ce-, Nd-, Th- sulfides, and gaseous phosphorus-sulfides. The possible addition of iron sulfide is investigated, to support a possible new path for dephosphorization of iron ore, recovery of phosphorus and concentration and recovery of rare metals. |