Multiscale mechanisms of dissolved Li⁺, Al³⁺, and Si⁴⁺ in enhancing flotation of fine-grained lepidolite

The efficient recovery of fine-grained lepidolite remains a critical challenge in lithium resource extraction. This study proposes a flotation method leveraging mineral dissolution, focusing on the action mechanisms of Li⁺, Al³⁺, and Si⁴⁺ ions released from lepidolite and feldspar surfaces in alkaline environments. Flotation tests confirm that dissolved ions increase the flotation recovery of lepidolite from 45.24 % to 81.34 %. Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP), Zeta potential, laser particle size measurement, and high-speed photography demonstrate that selectively released ions induce selective particle aggregation by regulating mineral surface potentials, thereby increasing the apparent particle size. Surface tension and foam property tests show that dissolved ions reduce the surface tension of the collector solution, optimize foam stability, and enhance mineralization efficiency. This study elucidates the pivotal role of dissolved ions in fine-grained lepidolite flotation and provides new insights into interface regulation strategies for the flotation of fine silicate minerals.