Mineralogical and granulo-chemical characterization of veins 4 and 10, of Ain Mimoun baryte ore mine

Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of the carried out granulo-chemical and mineralogical study, realised on barite of two veins 4 and 10 of Ain Mimoun deposit (Algeria), is the identification of the barite ore in order to be able to choose a reliable processing method due to its complicated structure. Methodology. The investigation was carried out by X-Ray Diffractions (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), particle size analysis and microscopic observations. Findings. Using the investigation devices, predominance of barite minerals was found at 51%, quartz in the vicinity of 34% and calcite at 9%, with a homogeneous distribution in all the fractions observed. Adding to that, the main compounds (oxides) present are SiO2, CaO, Fe2O3, Al2O3, P2O5, Na2O, K2O, TiO2, and MnO. Originality. For the first time the characterization of veins 4 and 10, in which the barite particles are embedded in silica, has been realised for the purpose of proving the possibility of their processing. Practical value. The obtained results confirm, on the one hand, that veins 4 and 10 are rich in barite and, on the other hand, barite particle release from silica particles is possible. Thus, we suggest, for a better and diversified use of the ore of the veins in question, the application of the flotation process, since the latter makes it possible to obtain high-quality concentrates, so it can be used not only in the petroleum field but also in the pharmaceutical and other industries.