Improvement of lead-zinc ore mining waste processing

Abstract

Expansion of mineral reserves and resources in Russia is currently connected with larger scale commercialization of rebellious ore and mining waste, and the percentage of the latter continuously grows. Due to the complex material constitution of minerals, their similar physicochemical and processing properties, as well as because of deficient ore pre-treatment, up to 20% of valuable minerals and metals are lost with tailings, mostly with very fine particles less than 10 µm. It is of the great concern to improve processing technologies for ore and mining waste. This research aims to analyze mineral compositions of tailings after lead-zinc ore flotation, and to identify causes of lead and zinc losses with the flotation tailings. The technology tests reveal that the losses lead and zinc in the form of micron size grains of galena (PbS) and wurtzite (ZnS) are connected with their aggregation with other minerals (quartz, pyrite, magnetite, etc.). The tests with physical (radiation) treatment show dissociation ability of aggregates with subsequent separation of minerals by flotation. The presence of magnetic magnetite in flotation tailings makes it possible to implement magnetic separation to increase the contents of lead and zinc in the concentrate. The scientific novelty and practical significance of this research consists in the proved expediency of radiation treatment of minerals and mining waste toward modification of their processibilty to ensure reduction in loss of valued components with tailings and to enhance environmental safety of mining waste.