Assessment of Present Phosphate Mining and Beneficiation Practice and the Evaluation of Alternative Technology

摘要

As the central Florida phosphate industry depletes its higher grade ore bodies and moves to the south and southwest, there is a general consensus that today's mining and beneficiation technology will not be adequate to keep the Florida industry competitive (both quality and cost-wise) with foreign rock producers. This workshop estimated the costs of new, alternative technology and projected the per ton cost of rock to be produced in 'future' ore bodies. The study identifies specific mining and beneficiation areas needing solutions or further development. Industry participation was broad and enthusiastic.