Application of advanced surface characterization technologies (ASCT) towards process optimization through diagnosis and problem-solving in flotation and extractive metallurgy

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Efficiency of metal recovery requires optimized strategies reflecting the complex mineral chemistry that is encountered in many mineral processing operations. Methods of recovery (eg. flotation and cyanidation) have operated for more than a century. However, a quantitative relationship between mineral chemistry, mineral surface chemistry and reaction to reagents is only modestly developed and strategic models for improved efficiency are lacking. Most problems are solved on a case-by-case analysis. The proposed research for 'Advanced surface characterization technologies towards process optimization for improved recoveries' combines expertise on surface and reagent chemistry, flotation processing, electro-chemical process models and applied metallurgy to develop optimization strategies in two major areas: (1) sulphide flotation and control measures and (2) gold and precious metal recovery. The aim of the project is to develop tools and methodologies to better identify factors controlling process efficiency. We believe that the development of an analytical decision tree will be a significant asset for industry metallurgists, where the application of high technology analytical tools to metallurgical processes is often overlooked in favor of more traditional approaches.