A TOF-SIMS surface chemical analytical study of rare earth element minerals from micro-flotation tests products

► Development work to optimize a REE mineral recovery process flow sheet is underway. ► The developed flotation reagents scheme is relatively complex. ► Micro-flotation tests were used on a feed sample to examine factors affecting stream. ► TOF-SIMS analysis was used to determine statistically differences in surface species. ► Results reveal concentrate grains are doing so in response to collector attachment.