Molecular Design and Spodumene Flotation—A Review

Abstract

Spodumene flotation stands as the most commonly used method to concentrate lithium minerals. However, it faces significant challenges related to low collector recoveries and similarity in the surface characteristics of the minerals, which make the effective separation of this valuable mineral difficult. For this reason, numerous researchers have conducted studies to address and confront this problem. In this work, an exhaustive bibliographic search was carried out using keywords and search queries, and the results were structured in three sections according to temporal, methodological, and thematic criteria. The first section covers the period from 1950 to 2004, focusing on experimental tests. The second section covers from 2004 to the present and focuses on flotation tests and measurement analysis. Simultaneously, the third section spans from 2011 to the present and is based on molecular dynamics simulations. Topics covered include spodumene surface properties, the influence of metal ions, pre-treatment techniques, and the use of collectors. Ultimately, molecular dynamics simulations are positioned as a tool that accurately represents experimental phenomena. In this context, specialized software such as Materials Studio or Gromacs prove to be reliable instruments that allow a detailed study of mineral surfaces and other elements to be carried out, which justifies their consideration for future research in this scientific field.