Characterisation and Environmental Significance of Glauconite from Mining Waste of the Egorievsk Phosphorite Deposit

Abstract

This article presents the results of a study of glauconite obtained from phosphate rock waste. The aim is to study the morphological, structural and chemical characteristics of glauconite and to determine the potential for secondary use of mining waste in the agricultural sector. The electromagnetic separation method was used to obtain glauconite concentrate. The optimum parameters for obtaining the maximum mineral content in the concentrate were determined. Studies have shown that glauconite is characterised by globular, granular grains of the highly mature variety. Glauconite almost invariably contains inclusions of pyrite and apatite, which significantly improve the characteristics of the fertiliser. Laboratory experiments have shown that glauconite waste and glauconite concentrate have a positive effect on plant growth and development. The high potassium content, the favourable globular shape of the grains, and the presence of apatite and pyrite inclusions indicate the potential use of glauconite from mining waste as a potash fertiliser. Application of glauconite fertiliser to the soil will provide an opportunity to improve its texture, providing better moisture and aeration. The use of glauconite fertiliser is particularly valuable on acidic soils where apatite can be dissolved, making phosphorus available to plants. This nutrient additionally favours plant growth, as well as reducing the risk of heavy metal accumulation in the soil. Thus, glauconite from the waste of the Egorievsk deposit represents a promising fertiliser for improving soil quality and increasing crop yields.