Geometallurgical Classification of REE Mineralisation in Alkaline Complexes


Geometallurgical Classification of REE Mineralisation in Alkaline Complexes

Atanasova, P.; Gutzmer, J.; Leijd, M.

Alkaline complexes comprise one of the most promising future sources for future rare earth element supply. They are particularly enriched in heavy rare earth elements. However, the often complex and highly unusual mineralogy of REE-enriched ores from alkaline complexes pose particular challenges for beneficiation. A geometallurgical approach is required to quantify mineralogical and textural diversity and variability. Based on a geometallurgical model, a suitable approach to beneficiation can be developed. SEM-based image analysis can be used to characterize ores as well as beneficiation products. A wide range of tangible mineralogical and textural parameters are constrained for every ore type, including mineral abundance, grain size, and liberation. The use of such an approach is illustrated here for the case of the Norra Kärr alkaline complex, Sweden. The complex is highly deformed and metamorphosed and known currently to contain resources of 41.6 Mt @ 0.57 % TREO with 51 % HREO/TREO and 1.7 % ZrO2 (indicated) and 16.5 Mt @ 0.64 % TREO with 49% HREO/TREO and 1.7 % Zr2O (inferred). Mineralization is hosted by aegirine nepheline-syenites that show a considerable textural and compositional diversity. REE-bearing minerals include eudialyte group minerals and very minor mosandrite and cerite. Zr is hosted by Zr-silicates catapleiite and eudialyte. Current research focuses to provide quantitative mineralogical and textural constraints for different lithological domains recognized in the HREE-Zr-mineralized zones of the complex. Based on the results, a geometallurgical model will be developed that will be based on the processing characteristics rather of the different portions of the mineralized zones.

Keywords: rare earth elements; alkaline complex; geometallurgy

  • Lecture (Conference)
    Critical Minerals 2013, 04.-05.06.2013, Perth, Australia
  • Contribution to proceedings
    Critical Minerals 2013, 04.-05.06.2013, Perth, Australia
    Critical Minerals Conference 2013 - Conference Proceedings, Australia: Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, 978 1 921522 88 8

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Publ.-Id: 18897