Characterization of complex bauxite ore: Part II
Abstract
This paper presents the results of a detailed physicochemical, mineralogical and textural characterization of a complex bauxite ore with a content of about 55% Al₂O₃, with the aim of defining the exact characteristics of the phases and their mutual relationships. Mineralogical analysis showed that the monohydrate phase of boehmite dominates the aluminum matrix, with a smaller share of diaspore. The key technological limiting factor of the raw material is the extremely high content of iron, primarily present in the form of hematite (about 23%), as well as a significant share of titanium dioxide (about 3% TiO₂). Given the complexity and fine interweaving of useful minerals and tailings, detailed characterization is the zero step for predicting the behavior of the raw material and choosing the optimal process for its future enrichment. An integrated approach was used for the characterization of the samples, which includes advanced instrumental methods: classical chemical analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, but also other analyses that will be presented later. The obtained results provide a fundamental scientific and practical basis for defining the required degree of grinding, the success of mineral release and the design of future technological processes for the purification of this complex raw material.