Abstract:

Microwave pretreatment of the ore in mineral processing operations can provide multiple benefits. The selective heating of typically the value minerals in the ore, results in thermal stress fracturing at the mineral grain boundaries and therefore the formation of microfractures. This results in both improved liberation and a reduction in the energy requirements for comminution. Furthermore, there can be additional advantages such as increased separation efficiencies in downstream processes for example in leaching and also with regards to tailings management. However, developing large-scale microwave systems capable of economically processing ore feeds at the throughputs and the particle sizes commonly encountered in the mining industry is complex. There are a number of significant technical opportunities under investigation, which can enable this technology to become a commercial success. In this paper, the key engineering and economic issues associated with the implementation of industrial-scale microwave systems for mineral economic issues associated with the implementation of industrial-scale microwave systems for mineral processing are discussed. Potential solutions to some of these challenges are provided. Particular attention is paid to de-risking the scale-up path via comprehensive laboratory, batch pilot-scale and continuous pilot-scale studies.

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Darryel Boucher