Mineralogical characterization and comprehensive utilization of micro-fine tantalum-niobium ores from Songzi

The mineralogical characteristics of tantalum-niobium ores from Songzi were investigated using mineral liberation analyzer (MLA) and chemical analysis. In particular, the chemical composition, phase composition, particle size, and dissemination characteristics of the ores were studied in detail. Results show that Ta2O5 and Nb2O5 have grades of 0.013 % and 0.011 %, respectively. The main valuable minerals in the ores are tantalite, columbite, tantalum-niobite, and microlite, and the gangue minerals associated with tantalum-niobium minerals mainly include quartz, kaolinite, illite, feldspar, and mica among others. The minerals are embedded in a complex manner. Tantalum-niobium minerals with most particle sizes of -0.040 mm are disseminated in minerals, such as mica, illite, quartz, and partially intergrown with topaz and zircon, where they could not be easily liberated. Thus, the ores are classified as low-grade, micro-fine, and refractory tantalum-niobium ores. Based on this consideration, the process of classification-gravity concentration-magnetic separation-middlings regrinding and gravity concentration are finally determined and satisfactory indices are obtained. Two rough concentrates are produced: Concentrate I has Ta2O5 and Nb2O5 grades of 7.0292 % and 3.546 %, respectively, as well as recovery of 49.42 % and 35.46 %. By comparison, Concentrate II has Ta2O5 and Nb2O5 grades of 7.0292 % and 3.546 %, respectively, as well as recovery of 49.42 % and 35.46 %.