Pub Date : 2026-01-28DOI: 10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110116
Yue Ma, Junhu Wu, Yanru Jin, Yue Lan, Lin Yang
Phosphorus ore containing rare earth elements is a valuable strategic resource, but its industrialization remains challenging due to cost constraints. This study utilized phosphate ore containing 911.2 ppm rare earth elements and 30.3 % P2O5 as raw material. By employing response surface methodology to optimize the two-step leaching process using phosphoric acid and sulfuric acid, demonstrating high efficiency in extracting rare earth elements and phosphorus while leveraging existing phosphate chemical industries to reduce costs. With a liquid-to-solid ratio of 7, a leaching temperature of 45 °C, a sulfuric acid addition time of 2 h, and a sulfuric acid excess coefficient of 0.8, the leaching efficiency for rare earth and phosphorus elements was 93.33 % and 91.89 %, respectively. Through thermodynamic analysis and in situ characterization, we thoroughly investigated the leaching process to elucidate the leaching mechanism. This study proposes a novel technology for the simultaneous recovery of rare earths and phosphorus, which holds significant strategic importance for the sustainable development of the rare earth and phosphorus chemical industries.
{"title":"Optimization and mechanism study of phosphorus and rare earth elements separation from phosphate ore by two-step leaching process","authors":"Yue Ma, Junhu Wu, Yanru Jin, Yue Lan, Lin Yang","doi":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110116","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110116","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Phosphorus ore containing rare earth elements is a valuable strategic resource, but its industrialization remains challenging due to cost constraints. This study utilized phosphate ore containing 911.2 ppm rare earth elements and 30.3 % P<sub>2</sub>O<sub>5</sub> as raw material. By employing response surface methodology to optimize the two-step leaching process using phosphoric acid and sulfuric acid, demonstrating high efficiency in extracting rare earth elements and phosphorus while leveraging existing phosphate chemical industries to reduce costs. With a liquid-to-solid ratio of 7, a leaching temperature of 45 °C, a sulfuric acid addition time of 2 h, and a sulfuric acid excess coefficient of 0.8, the leaching efficiency for rare earth and phosphorus elements was 93.33 % and 91.89 %, respectively. Through thermodynamic analysis and in situ characterization, we thoroughly investigated the leaching process to elucidate the leaching mechanism. This study proposes a novel technology for the simultaneous recovery of rare earths and phosphorus, which holds significant strategic importance for the sustainable development of the rare earth and phosphorus chemical industries.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18594,"journal":{"name":"Minerals Engineering","volume":"239 ","pages":"Article 110116"},"PeriodicalIF":5.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146072448","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-28DOI: 10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110087
Guangying Zhang , Junjie Zhao , Songjiang Guo , Ruizhe Wang , Kuixian Wei , Wenhui Ma
The conventional thermal treatment of common quartz often proves insufficient for the thorough removal of fluid inclusions, thereby hindering the production of high-purity quartz sand. In this study, a novel stepwise chlorination roasting process is proposed, utilizing the bursting temperature characteristics of fluid inclusions in quartz along with the benefits of chlorination roasting. Vein quartz was initially roasted at 600 ℃ for 2 h in a Cl2 atmosphere, followed by a second roasting at 900 ℃ for an additional 2 h. Experimental results indicate that, after stepwise chlorination roasting, the light transmittance of quartz increased from 56.72% to 93.38%, while water content decreased from 222.60 µg/g to 64.00 µg/g, corresponding to a removal rate of 71.25%, surpassing conventional methods in eliminating fluid inclusions. The final water content is lower than that of first-grade crystal, indicating compliance with standards for use in photovoltaic quartz crucibles. By analyzing the mechanisms of quartz crack propagation and lattice transformation, the mechanism by which stepwise chlorination roasting enhances the removal of fluid inclusion impurities has been elucidated. This study presents a new method of removing fluid inclusions from ordinary quartz, which will contribute to the healthy and sustainable development of the photovoltaic industry.
{"title":"Removal of fluid inclusions from vein quartz by stepwise chlorination roasting and mechanism study","authors":"Guangying Zhang , Junjie Zhao , Songjiang Guo , Ruizhe Wang , Kuixian Wei , Wenhui Ma","doi":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110087","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110087","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The conventional thermal treatment of common quartz often proves insufficient for the thorough removal of fluid inclusions, thereby hindering the production of high-purity quartz sand. In this study, a novel stepwise chlorination roasting process is proposed, utilizing the bursting temperature characteristics of fluid inclusions in quartz along with the benefits of chlorination roasting. Vein quartz was initially roasted at 600 ℃ for 2 h in a Cl<sub>2</sub> atmosphere, followed by a second roasting at 900 ℃ for an additional 2 h. Experimental results indicate that, after stepwise chlorination roasting, the light transmittance of quartz increased from 56.72% to 93.38%, while water content decreased from 222.60 µg/g to 64.00 µg/g, corresponding to a removal rate of 71.25%, surpassing conventional methods in eliminating fluid inclusions. The final water content is lower than that of first-grade crystal, indicating compliance with standards for use in photovoltaic quartz crucibles. By analyzing the mechanisms of quartz crack propagation and lattice transformation, the mechanism by which stepwise chlorination roasting enhances the removal of fluid inclusion impurities has been elucidated. This study presents a new method of removing fluid inclusions from ordinary quartz, which will contribute to the healthy and sustainable development of the photovoltaic industry.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18594,"journal":{"name":"Minerals Engineering","volume":"239 ","pages":"Article 110087"},"PeriodicalIF":5.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146072449","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-27DOI: 10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110100
O. Altun , D. Altun , N.A. Toprak , C.V. Tipici , Z. Dağtarla , E. Savaş
This research investigates the link between the mineralogical composition of rock types and their response during jaw crushing. The study focuses on the effects of mineralogy on comminution parameters, crushing performance, and jaw liner wear. Six representative rock and ore types—gold, lead–zinc, polymetallic, basalt, limestone, and dolomite—were characterized through a comprehensive testing program, including the drop-weight test (DW, A × b parameter), Los Angeles abrasion (L.A.), Bond crushability work index (BCWi), Bond abrasion index (Ai), and point load test (PLT). Internal relationships between these comminution parameters were established, and regression models were developed to relate each parameter to the mineralogical compositions of the samples. Pilot-scale jaw crusher experiments were then conducted under varied feed size distributions and closed-side settings (CSS) to evaluate crushing responses and measure plate wear as functions of mineralogical composition. In addition, metal composition trials were carried out on the jaw plates to assess how different alloy contents influenced the wear mechanism and to identify the most durable configuration. The pilot test results were further analyzed through Kick’s law, linking the Kick constant (Ck) to the comminution parameters. Overall, the study demonstrates how mineralogical and metallic characteristics jointly govern size reduction and wear mechanisms, offering a practical framework for predicting crusher performance and supporting operational (OPEX) and capital (CAPEX) optimization in industrial comminution systems.
本研究探讨了岩石类型的矿物组成及其在颚式破碎过程中的响应之间的联系。研究重点是矿物学对粉碎参数、破碎性能和颚衬磨损的影响。通过落重试验（DW， a × b参数）、洛杉矶磨损（L.A.）、Bond可破碎功指数（BCWi）、Bond磨损指数（Ai）和点载荷试验（PLT）等综合试验方案，对金、铅锌、多金属、玄武岩、石灰岩和白云岩等6种具有代表性的岩石和矿石类型进行了表征。建立了这些粉碎参数之间的内在关系，并建立了回归模型，将每个参数与样品的矿物组成联系起来。然后在不同进料粒度分布和封闭侧设置（CSS）下进行中试规模颚式破碎机实验，以评估破碎响应并测量矿物组成对板磨损的影响。此外，对颚板进行了金属成分试验，以评估不同合金含量对磨损机制的影响，并确定最耐用的结构。通过Kick’s定律，将Kick常数（Ck）与粉碎参数联系起来，进一步分析了中试结果。总体而言，该研究展示了矿物学和金属特征如何共同影响尺寸减小和磨损机制，为预测破碎机性能和支持工业粉碎系统的操作（OPEX）和资本（CAPEX）优化提供了一个实用框架。
{"title":"Crushing operation from a mineralogical class perspective: insights from comminution parameters, crusher performance, and liner wear","authors":"O. Altun , D. Altun , N.A. Toprak , C.V. Tipici , Z. Dağtarla , E. Savaş","doi":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110100","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110100","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This research investigates the link between the mineralogical composition of rock types and their response during jaw crushing. The study focuses on the effects of mineralogy on comminution parameters, crushing performance, and jaw liner wear. Six representative rock and ore types—gold, lead–zinc, polymetallic, basalt, limestone, and dolomite—were characterized through a comprehensive testing program, including the drop-weight test (DW, A × b parameter), Los Angeles abrasion (L.A.), Bond crushability work index (B<sub>CWi</sub>), Bond abrasion index (A<sub>i</sub>), and point load test (PLT). Internal relationships between these comminution parameters were established, and regression models were developed to relate each parameter to the mineralogical compositions of the samples. Pilot-scale jaw crusher experiments were then conducted under varied feed size distributions and closed-side settings (CSS) to evaluate crushing responses and measure plate wear as functions of mineralogical composition. In addition, metal composition trials were carried out on the jaw plates to assess how different alloy contents influenced the wear mechanism and to identify the most durable configuration. The pilot test results were further analyzed through Kick’s law, linking the Kick constant (C<sub>k</sub>) to the comminution parameters. Overall, the study demonstrates how mineralogical and metallic characteristics jointly govern size reduction and wear mechanisms, offering a practical framework for predicting crusher performance and supporting operational (OPEX) and capital (CAPEX) optimization in industrial comminution systems.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18594,"journal":{"name":"Minerals Engineering","volume":"239 ","pages":"Article 110100"},"PeriodicalIF":5.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146048068","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-27DOI: 10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110112
Wanqing Li , Yubiao Li , Jialong Zhao , Zhonghong Wang , Wen Chen
The separation of chalcopyrite from galena attracts much attention during the flotation process due to their similar floatability, especially in seawater. This study systematically investigated the effects of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and sodium metabisulfite (MBS) on the Cu-Pb flotation separation in seawater. Flotation results indicated that the galvanic interaction between chalcopyrite and galena decreased the recoveries of chalcopyrite and galena by 2 ∼ 6 % and 6 ∼ 12 %, respectively. Further addition of combined depressant including CMC and MBS resulted in a non-floatable galena but affected chalcopyrite flotation lightly, showing the highest selectivity index of 19.11. Metal ion releasing evolution and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) results demonstrated that galvanic interaction enhanced the oxidation of galena surface where the adsorption of CMC and MBS was strengthened, forming hydrophilic species and a tight water film, thereby inhibiting the flotation of galena. Differently, CMC and MBS influenced chalcopyrite surface slightly. Further electrochemical investigation confirmed that the electrochemical reactivity on galena surface was reduced significantly due to the introduced depressants, preventing the reaction between the active sites on galena surface and IPTEC molecules. In contrast, the depressant-treated chalcopyrite surface remained at a relatively high electrochemical reactivity, which was beneficial to the adsorption of IPTEC on chalcopyrite surface to form an uneven hydrophobic film. This study therefore provides a promising orientation by adding CMC and MBS to achieve the efficient and environmental flotation separation of chalcopyrite and galena in seawater system.
{"title":"Effect of CMC and MBS on the separation of chalcopyrite and galena in seawater","authors":"Wanqing Li , Yubiao Li , Jialong Zhao , Zhonghong Wang , Wen Chen","doi":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110112","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110112","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The separation of chalcopyrite from galena attracts much attention during the flotation process due to their similar floatability, especially in seawater. This study systematically investigated the effects of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and sodium metabisulfite (MBS) on the Cu-Pb flotation separation in seawater. Flotation results indicated that the galvanic interaction between chalcopyrite and galena decreased the recoveries of chalcopyrite and galena by 2 ∼ 6 % and 6 ∼ 12 %, respectively. Further addition of combined depressant including CMC and MBS resulted in a non-floatable galena but affected chalcopyrite flotation lightly, showing the highest selectivity index of 19.11. Metal ion releasing evolution and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) results demonstrated that galvanic interaction enhanced the oxidation of galena surface where the adsorption of CMC and MBS was strengthened, forming hydrophilic species and a tight water film, thereby inhibiting the flotation of galena. Differently, CMC and MBS influenced chalcopyrite surface slightly. Further electrochemical investigation confirmed that the electrochemical reactivity on galena surface was reduced significantly due to the introduced depressants, preventing the reaction between the active sites on galena surface and IPTEC molecules. In contrast, the depressant-treated chalcopyrite surface remained at a relatively high electrochemical reactivity, which was beneficial to the adsorption of IPTEC on chalcopyrite surface to form an uneven hydrophobic film. This study therefore provides a promising orientation by adding CMC and MBS to achieve the efficient and environmental flotation separation of chalcopyrite and galena in seawater system.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18594,"journal":{"name":"Minerals Engineering","volume":"239 ","pages":"Article 110112"},"PeriodicalIF":5.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146072451","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-26DOI: 10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110103
Regina B.D. de Medeiros , Wei Sung Ng , Tina Hsia , San H. Thang , George V. Franks
This paper investigates the use of novel bio-based collectors D-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol 400 succinate xanthate (TPGS-X) and α-tocopherol ethyl xanthate (VitE-X) in the flotation of chalcopyrite fine particles and aggregates, as an alternative replacement for conventional xanthate collectors. Potassium amyl xanthate (PAX) was used as a conventional collector for comparison. Commercial anionic polyacrylamide (APAM) flocculants were applied to selectively aggregate the fines with the aim of improving recovery via the formation of larger aggregates. The performance of all collectors was evaluated through the flotation recovery and grade of both the fines and aggregated particles. Contact angle tests were also performed to analyse the effect of the reagents on the hydrophobicity of the chalcopyrite surface. The experimental results showed that TPGS-X provided the best chalcopyrite recovery and grade amongst all collectors, followed by VitE-X, although quartz was also recovered via entrainment. PAX addition improved the grade of the concentrates but did not significantly affect the recovery of the valuable particles. Increasing TPGS-X dosage enhanced chalcopyrite grade from ∼ 43 % to 54 % and recovery from ∼ 48 % up to 82 %. The addition of APAM for fines aggregation was also found to reduce chalcopyrite flotation recovery and grade due to entrapment effects. Contact angle experiments demonstrated that all collectors increased the hydrophobicity of the chalcopyrite surface, but treatment with APAM reduced the effectiveness of the collectors. This potentially suggests that the surface hydrophobicity has a more dominant effect on the flotation efficiency than the aggregate size for the chalcopyrite-quartz system. Finally, both novel TPGS-X and VitE-X were found to be able to improve the flotation of fine particles, but the flotation of aggregates remains challenging for the investigated system.
{"title":"Flotation of copper mineral fines and aggregates using novel bio-inspired Vitamin E xanthate collectors","authors":"Regina B.D. de Medeiros , Wei Sung Ng , Tina Hsia , San H. Thang , George V. Franks","doi":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110103","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110103","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This paper investigates the use of novel bio-based collectors D-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol 400 succinate xanthate (TPGS-X) and α-tocopherol ethyl xanthate (VitE-X) in the flotation of chalcopyrite fine particles and aggregates, as an alternative replacement for conventional xanthate collectors. Potassium amyl xanthate (PAX) was used as a conventional collector for comparison. Commercial anionic polyacrylamide (APAM) flocculants were applied to selectively aggregate the fines with the aim of improving recovery via the formation of larger aggregates. The performance of all collectors was evaluated through the flotation recovery and grade of both the fines and aggregated particles. Contact angle tests were also performed to analyse the effect of the reagents on the hydrophobicity of the chalcopyrite surface. The experimental results showed that TPGS-X provided the best chalcopyrite recovery and grade amongst all collectors, followed by VitE-X, although quartz was also recovered via entrainment. PAX addition improved the grade of the concentrates but did not significantly affect the recovery of the valuable particles. Increasing TPGS-X dosage enhanced chalcopyrite grade from ∼ 43 % to 54 % and recovery from ∼ 48 % up to 82 %. The addition of APAM for fines aggregation was also found to reduce chalcopyrite flotation recovery and grade due to entrapment effects. Contact angle experiments demonstrated that all collectors increased the hydrophobicity of the chalcopyrite surface, but treatment with APAM reduced the effectiveness of the collectors. This potentially suggests that the surface hydrophobicity has a more dominant effect on the flotation efficiency than the aggregate size for the chalcopyrite-quartz system. Finally, both novel TPGS-X and VitE-X were found to be able to improve the flotation of fine particles, but the flotation of aggregates remains challenging for the investigated system.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18594,"journal":{"name":"Minerals Engineering","volume":"239 ","pages":"Article 110103"},"PeriodicalIF":5.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146048070","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-26DOI: 10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110058
Jian Kang , Linlin Tong , Qin Zhang , Zhenan Jin , Han Zhao , Bin Xiong , Hongying Yang
Low-grade tungsten-molybdenum ore (LGTMO) is characterized by complex mineral composition, where valuable minerals namely tungsten (W) and molybdenum (Mo) are finely disseminated and closely associated with gangue minerals. Additionally, Mo in the ore has a relatively high oxidation degree, and W and Mo exhibit isomorphic substitution, which collectively leads to poor separation efficiency of W and Mo by flotation. Therefore, hydrometallurgical processes are considered a promising alternative for the extraction of W and Mo from LGTMO. In this study, thermodynamic calculations were performed to plot and analyze the lgc-pH diagrams of CaMoO4-CaWO4 in the Ca-W-Mo-P-H2O system. The results indicated that an increase in the total phosphorus concentration and pH is favorable for the decomposition of CaMoO4-CaWO4. Furthermore, leaching kinetic analysis of LGTMO was carried out, and the kinetic parameters were determined. For Mo leaching, the activation energies were calculated as 30.94 kJ/mol (5–65 min) and 22.97 kJ/mol (65–215 min), respectively, and the entire leaching process (5–215 min) followed a mixed-controlled model. For WO3 leaching, the activation energies were 45.4 kJ/mol (5–65 min) and 38.45 kJ/mol (65–215 min); specifically, the leaching process was controlled by interfacial chemical reaction in the early stage (5–65 min) and shifted to a mixed-controlled model in the later stage (65–215 min). Collectively, the findings from leaching thermodynamics and kinetics provide a theoretical basis for the extraction of Mo and WO3 from LGTMO using a combined reagent system consisting of sodium hypochlorite, trisodium phosphate, and sodium hydroxide.
{"title":"Extraction of tungsten and molybdenum from low-grade tungsten-molybdenum ore: Thermodynamic calculations and kinetic analyses","authors":"Jian Kang , Linlin Tong , Qin Zhang , Zhenan Jin , Han Zhao , Bin Xiong , Hongying Yang","doi":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110058","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110058","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Low-grade tungsten-molybdenum ore (LGTMO) is characterized by complex mineral composition, where valuable minerals namely tungsten (W) and molybdenum (Mo) are finely disseminated and closely associated with gangue minerals. Additionally, Mo in the ore has a relatively high oxidation degree, and W and Mo exhibit isomorphic substitution, which collectively leads to poor separation efficiency of W and Mo by flotation. Therefore, hydrometallurgical processes are considered a promising alternative for the extraction of W and Mo from LGTMO. In this study, thermodynamic calculations were performed to plot and analyze the lg<em>c</em>-pH diagrams of CaMoO<sub>4</sub>-CaWO<sub>4</sub> in the Ca-W-Mo-P-H<sub>2</sub>O system. The results indicated that an increase in the total phosphorus concentration and pH is favorable for the decomposition of CaMoO<sub>4</sub>-CaWO<sub>4</sub>. Furthermore, leaching kinetic analysis of LGTMO was carried out, and the kinetic parameters were determined. For Mo leaching, the activation energies were calculated as 30.94 kJ/mol (5–65 min) and 22.97 kJ/mol (65–215 min), respectively, and the entire leaching process (5–215 min) followed a mixed-controlled model. For WO<sub>3</sub> leaching, the activation energies were 45.4 kJ/mol (5–65 min) and 38.45 kJ/mol (65–215 min); specifically, the leaching process was controlled by interfacial chemical reaction in the early stage (5–65 min) and shifted to a mixed-controlled model in the later stage (65–215 min). Collectively, the findings from leaching thermodynamics and kinetics provide a theoretical basis for the extraction of Mo and WO<sub>3</sub> from LGTMO using a combined reagent system consisting of sodium hypochlorite, trisodium phosphate, and sodium hydroxide.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18594,"journal":{"name":"Minerals Engineering","volume":"239 ","pages":"Article 110058"},"PeriodicalIF":5.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146048071","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-25DOI: 10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110113
Yiqi Cui , Chuyu Yang , Ke Zhou , Jing Wang , Xiao Wang , Zhentao Yuan
Tin ores in southwestern China are complex polymetallic deposits containing copper, tin, and iron, with abundant pyrrhotite that is difficult to separate from cassiterite, resulting in low desulfurization efficiency. To address the high operational cost, excessive reagent consumption, and environmental risks of conventional CuSO4 activators, an acid-free Cu(I)-based desulfurization activator named SY-1 was developed. SY-1 increased pyrrhotite recovery to approximately 90 % at 0.4 × 10–4 mol·L−1 and remained effective across a wide pH range of 2–12. Compared with CuSO4, SY-1 induced a stronger negative shift in zeta potential, enabling higher BX anion adsorption and superior activation efficiency. Furthermore, surface characterization confirmed that activation increased the Cu(I) content and S2-/S22- ratio of pyrrhotite, thereby exposing additional active sites. In addition, quantum chemical calculations and AIMD simulations showed that Cu(I) adsorbs strongly on pyrrhotite and creates additional BX anion adsorption sites, thereby avoiding the multi-step electron-transfer pathway of Cu (II) and enabling efficient, low-dosage flotation. Taken together, this study presents a green and highly efficient desulfurization activator, offering a sustainable strategy for processing complex polymetallic tin ores.
{"title":"Acid-Free Cu(I) activator for Selective pyrrhotite Flotation: Interfacial activation pathway and mechanistic insights","authors":"Yiqi Cui , Chuyu Yang , Ke Zhou , Jing Wang , Xiao Wang , Zhentao Yuan","doi":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110113","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110113","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Tin ores in southwestern China are complex polymetallic deposits containing copper, tin, and iron, with abundant pyrrhotite that is difficult to separate from cassiterite, resulting in low desulfurization efficiency. To address the high operational cost, excessive reagent consumption, and environmental risks of conventional CuSO<sub>4</sub> activators, an acid-free Cu(I)-based desulfurization activator named SY-1 was developed. SY-1 increased pyrrhotite recovery to approximately 90 % at 0.4 × 10<sup>–4</sup> mol·L<sup>−1</sup> and remained effective across a wide pH range of 2–12. Compared with CuSO<sub>4</sub>, SY-1 induced a stronger negative shift in zeta potential, enabling higher BX anion adsorption and superior activation efficiency. Furthermore, surface characterization confirmed that activation increased the Cu(I) content and S<sup>2-</sup>/S<sub>2</sub><sup>2-</sup> ratio of pyrrhotite, thereby exposing additional active sites. In addition, quantum chemical calculations and AIMD simulations showed that Cu(I) adsorbs strongly on pyrrhotite and creates additional BX anion adsorption sites, thereby avoiding the multi-step electron-transfer pathway of Cu (II) and enabling efficient, low-dosage flotation. Taken together, this study presents a green and highly efficient desulfurization activator, offering a sustainable strategy for processing complex polymetallic tin ores.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18594,"journal":{"name":"Minerals Engineering","volume":"239 ","pages":"Article 110113"},"PeriodicalIF":5.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146048072","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-24DOI: 10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110106
Ziqi Jin , Yuanlai Xu , Ziqi Wang , Shimin Hu , Junhao Pan , Pei Zhao , Ru'an Chi
Contrast to the general rare earth ores from Jiangxi province, rare earth ores from Hunan province exhibit unique clay compositions, such as higher halloysite and kaolinite content, leading to the stronger swelling and different leaching behavior compared to Jiangxi ores. To promote the green and efficient exploitation of ion-adsorption rare earth ores, potassium benzoate (C6H5COOK) was chosen as a novel swelling inhibitor adding to MgSO4 leaching solution to investigate its dual role in suppressing clay swelling and enhancing permeability in this study.
Swelling tests, mud ball disintegration, sedimentation, and column leaching experiments were conducted to evaluate its effects on the structural stability and permeability of kaolinite, halloysite and rare earth ores, respectively. Experimental results showed that potassium benzoate significantly inhibited clay swelling during 72 h tested time and improved solution percolation between particles. The swelling rate decreased from 6.401% to 2.251%, corresponding to an inhibition rate of 64.83%, and a rare earth leaching recovery of 97.60% were achieved, demonstrating well performance in both structural stabilization and extraction efficiency.
From fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermogravimetric (TG) mechanism analysis, potassium ions from potassium benzoate replaced interlayer cations via ion exchange, weakening the hydration film and suppressing interlayer expansion. Meanwhile, benzoate anions adsorbed onto mineral surfaces, forming a hydrophobic layer that stabilized the structure and promoted infiltration.
{"title":"Inhibition effect on swelling and permeability enhancement of potassium benzoate in ion adsorption rare earth ore elution","authors":"Ziqi Jin , Yuanlai Xu , Ziqi Wang , Shimin Hu , Junhao Pan , Pei Zhao , Ru'an Chi","doi":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110106","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110106","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Contrast to the general rare earth ores from Jiangxi province, rare earth ores from Hunan province exhibit unique clay compositions, such as higher halloysite and kaolinite content, leading to the stronger swelling and different leaching behavior compared to Jiangxi ores. To promote the green and efficient exploitation of ion-adsorption rare earth ores, potassium benzoate (C<sub>6</sub>H<sub>5</sub>COOK) was chosen as a novel swelling inhibitor adding to MgSO<sub>4</sub> leaching solution to investigate its dual role in suppressing clay swelling and enhancing permeability in this study.</div><div>Swelling tests, mud ball disintegration, sedimentation, and column leaching experiments were conducted to evaluate its effects on the structural stability and permeability of kaolinite, halloysite and rare earth ores, respectively. Experimental results showed that potassium benzoate significantly inhibited clay swelling during 72 h tested time and improved solution percolation between particles. The swelling rate decreased from 6.401% to 2.251%, corresponding to an inhibition rate of 64.83%, and a rare earth leaching recovery of 97.60% were achieved, demonstrating well performance in both structural stabilization and extraction efficiency.</div><div>From fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermogravimetric (TG) mechanism analysis, potassium ions from potassium benzoate replaced interlayer cations via ion exchange, weakening the hydration film and suppressing interlayer expansion. Meanwhile, benzoate anions adsorbed onto mineral surfaces, forming a hydrophobic layer that stabilized the structure and promoted infiltration.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18594,"journal":{"name":"Minerals Engineering","volume":"239 ","pages":"Article 110106"},"PeriodicalIF":5.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146048116","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Six aniline-based compounds with different alkyl chain lengths ranging from 4 to 14 were synthesized from 2-aminobenzenethiol and 1-bromoalkane. The aniline-based compounds were used as collectors for the investigation of the flotation effect on copper sulfide ores. Chalcopyrite flotation showed that copper recovery tended to increase and then decrease with increasing alkyl chain length (C4 → C14). The highest copper recovery was achieved using 2-(dodecylthio)aniline (2-DDA) with a chain length of 12 at pH 9 and a concentration of 8 × 10−4 mol/L, which was higher than that of the conventional collector PAX. The flotation results of actual low-grade copper sulfide ores showed the same trend of alkyl chain length and copper recovery of aniline-based compounds as the flotation of chalcopyrite samples. And the flotation performance of aniline-based compounds, especially those with longer chains, was generally better than that of PAX. Surface tension tests showed that the surface tension of aniline-based compounds decreased with increasing alkyl chain length, but the reduction in surface tension gradually decreased. An appropriate increase in alkyl chain length is favorable to the enhancement of the collector’s floatability. The adsorption experiments showed that the maximum adsorption rate of aniline-based compounds on the surface of chalcopyrite could reach 99.7% from 2-DDA, and the order of adsorption capacity was consistent with the flotation results. According to the FT-IR spectroscopy analysis and coordination chemistry theory, it was speculated that the aniline-based compounds might form a five-membered ring with copper on chalcopyrite through the coordination of the amino and thiol groups. The hydrophobic association of the long-chain alkyl groups further enhanced the floatability of aniline-based compounds on the mineral surface.
{"title":"Effect of chain length on the flotation performance of aniline-based compounds in the flotation of copper sulfide ores","authors":"Jia Zhao , Labone L. Godirilwe , Kazutoshi Haga , Manabu Yamada , Kosuke Makiguchi , Seunggwan Hong , Atsushi Shibayama","doi":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110109","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110109","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Six aniline-based compounds with different alkyl chain lengths ranging from 4 to 14 were synthesized from 2-aminobenzenethiol and 1-bromoalkane. The aniline-based compounds were used as collectors for the investigation of the flotation effect on copper sulfide ores. Chalcopyrite flotation showed that copper recovery tended to increase and then decrease with increasing alkyl chain length (C4 → C14). The highest copper recovery was achieved using 2-(dodecylthio)aniline (2-DDA) with a chain length of 12 at pH 9 and a concentration of 8 × 10<sup>−4</sup> mol/L, which was higher than that of the conventional collector PAX. The flotation results of actual low-grade copper sulfide ores showed the same trend of alkyl chain length and copper recovery of aniline-based compounds as the flotation of chalcopyrite samples. And the flotation performance of aniline-based compounds, especially those with longer chains, was generally better than that of PAX. Surface tension tests showed that the surface tension of aniline-based compounds decreased with increasing alkyl chain length, but the reduction in surface tension gradually decreased. An appropriate increase in alkyl chain length is favorable to the enhancement of the collector’s floatability. The adsorption experiments showed that the maximum adsorption rate of aniline-based compounds on the surface of chalcopyrite could reach 99.7% from 2-DDA, and the order of adsorption capacity was consistent with the flotation results. According to the FT-IR spectroscopy analysis and coordination chemistry theory, it was speculated that the aniline-based compounds might form a five-membered ring with copper on chalcopyrite through the coordination of the amino and thiol groups. The hydrophobic association of the long-chain alkyl groups further enhanced the floatability of aniline-based compounds on the mineral surface.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18594,"journal":{"name":"Minerals Engineering","volume":"239 ","pages":"Article 110109"},"PeriodicalIF":5.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146025308","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-23DOI: 10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110107
Yuhan Liu , Kaikai Chen , Ran Yang , Shijie Yu , Fengliang Liu , Mingzhen Lu , Haishen Jiang , Miao Pan
Due to the increasing proportion of low-grade fine-grained ores, there is an urgent need to improve the performance of vibrating screens. To this end, this study investigates how different high-vibratory elastic screen surface structures affect mineral screening motion and classification performance. Eight different screen surface structures with varying reinforcement arrangements are designed. Their effects on screen surface motion are analyzed through vibration tests, and the motion behavior of the materials is analyzed using high-speed imaging. Finally, the screening efficiency is evaluated via screening tests. The results show that adjusting the position and fixation of the reinforcement significantly affects both the screen surface acceleration distribution and material dispersion and stratification. The best screening efficiency of 92.47% was achieved.
{"title":"Effects of high-vibration elastic screen surface structure on motion characteristics and screening performance","authors":"Yuhan Liu , Kaikai Chen , Ran Yang , Shijie Yu , Fengliang Liu , Mingzhen Lu , Haishen Jiang , Miao Pan","doi":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110107","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mineng.2026.110107","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Due to the increasing proportion of low-grade fine-grained ores, there is an urgent need to improve the performance of vibrating screens. To this end, this study investigates how different high-vibratory elastic screen surface structures affect mineral screening motion and classification performance. Eight different screen surface structures with varying reinforcement arrangements are designed. Their effects on screen surface motion are analyzed through vibration tests, and the motion behavior of the materials is analyzed using high-speed imaging. Finally, the screening efficiency is evaluated via screening tests. The results show that adjusting the position and fixation of the reinforcement significantly affects both the screen surface acceleration distribution and material dispersion and stratification. The best screening efficiency of 92.47% was achieved.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18594,"journal":{"name":"Minerals Engineering","volume":"239 ","pages":"Article 110107"},"PeriodicalIF":5.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146025307","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
扫码关注我们
求助内容：
应助结果提醒方式：
京公网安备 11010802042870号