Triboelectric Fluidized-Bed Separation of Ultra-Fine Critical Minerals in Desert Climates

Abstract: The green energy transition has triggered an unprecedented global demand for critical minerals, including copper (𝐶𝑢), lithium (𝐿𝑖), rare earth elements (𝑅𝐸𝐸𝑠), and cobalt (𝐶𝑜). However, a massive portion of remaining reserves are located in hyper-arid desert regions where conventional wet froth flotation is severely constrained by extreme water scarcity and environmental regulations against tailing dams. This paper reviews the state-of-the-art in Triboelectric Fluidized-Bed Separation, a completely dry beneficiation paradigm tailored for ultra-fine particle sizes (< 45 𝜇m). We analyze the micro-mechanics of gas-solid fluidization for differential surface charge accumulation (contact electrification) and trace how mineral-specific work functions dictate particle trajectories through high-intensity electric fields. Finally, we evaluate the distinct environmental challenges of desert climates—specifically ambient humidity fluctuations and thermal stresses—on separation efficiency and fine-particle agglomeration.