Characterization of polymetallic ore of zinc, copper and lead

Abstract

The study aimed to characterize a sample of approximately 150 kg of polymetallic zinc, copper and lead ore from the Aripuanã region, Mato Grosso. Due to the strategic importance of these minerals in the Brazilian economy and the complexity of processing. To achieve the objective, techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP) were used to identify the minerals and determine its chemical composition. Furthermore, the Bond Work Index (WI) test was performed to evaluate resistance to fragmentation, and helium gas pycnometry was used to analyze the specific mass. The results showed a specific mass of 2.89 g/cm³, a WI of 9.22 kWh/st and contents of 5.15% zinc, 0.15% copper and 1.30% lead. The presence of minerals carrying the study elements, such as galena, sphalerite and chalcopyrite, highlights the relevance of these findings for the mining and metallurgy industry, boosting sustainable development and consolidating Brazil's position as a producer of valuable mineral resources.