Physical separation methods, Part 1: A Review

Abstract

Abstract Herein, the importance of physical separation methods of ores in mineral processing is widely acknowledged. Of interest is the magnetic separation, gravity concentration and sensor-based separation methods. The process of separating elements of value from gangue in ores depends on its chemical nature and mineralogical attributes hence the need for a profound characterization prior to physical separation. Some ores especially copper sulphides are readily available in nature in low grades usually less < 1% while some may appear relatively in small isolated deposits (Baba et al, 2012). Therefore, it is costly to extract a small portion of a purified metal from such ores. To circumvent high energy and costs when conducting relevant extraction operations, ores directly from mines can be processed physically before smelting, leaching, purifying or other recovery processes. Most physical separation plants and processes are adjunct to the mines to avoid transportation of a heavy ore with only a small portion of valuables. The aim of this review is to present an understanding on physical separation methods with emphasis on how they take advantage of ore physical properties to achieve separation. In addition, developments of these methods with growing technology is also presented.