Research Progress on Flotation Reagents and Separation Process of Rare Earth Ore in Bayan Obo Mine

The Bayan Obo deposit, recognized as the world′s largest polymetallic deposit containing iron, rare earth elements, fluorite, and other valuable metals, is a mineral resource of considerable strategic significance. However, the complex mineral associations, fine dissemination characteristics, and similar physical and chemical properties among the constituent minerals pose significant challenges to its comprehensive utilization. This paper focuses on the recycling and utilization of rare earth resources, providing a comprehensive overview of the current status of rare earth resources in Bayan Obo and recent advances in flotation reagent research. It summarizes the characteristics, advantages, and limitations of various flotation reagent types and presents the development status and research progress of beneficiation processes for different ore types within the Bayan Obo deposit. Based on this analysis, future development trends in rare earth flotation reagents and research directions in separation technologies are discussed. This provides a foundation for the comprehensive promotion of green and efficient utilization of Bayan Obo rare earth resources, and holds significant importance for advancing the sustainable development of mineral resources.