For the optimum practice of extractive metallurgy, accurate and rapid characterization of ore is critical for mine planning and ore processing. Definitive information from mineralogical and metallurgical analysis is essential for operators to develop and maintain pit geologic maps, dig plans, block models and to make informed ore processing decisions all within the tight economic parameters of today’s world.

ASD’s TerraSpec^® near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopic instrumentation in extractive metallurgy speed metallurgical and mineralogical analysis, much more rapidly than conventional laboratory-based methods. With a long successful track record within the mining sector, NIR is used for identification and quantitative analysis of the complex mineral assemblages present in various ores. ASD’s advanced NIR technology measures samples in real-time, allowing accurate analysis of hundreds of samples per day.

NIR is especially useful for determination of clays and other phyllosilicate minerals allowing for immediate adjustments to changing conditions. These include physical properties that can either help or hinder the metal recovery process during mineral processing and heap leach operations. Data from NIR analysis can help when evaluating critical parameters associated with mineral processing and heap leach operations such as comminution, concentration, permeability, reagent usage including acid consumption, and moisture addition resulting in an improved metal recovery while reducing processing time, lowering energy use and costs.

ASD’s NIR analyzers allow operators to measure key parameters like those below in a rapid, cost-effective manner that doesn’t interfere with production.

• Abundances of iron (and other transition element) oxides and hydroxides
• Rare Earth Element (REE) minerals
• Acid consumption
• Total swelling clays
• Comprehensive clay mineralogy
• Micas, chlorites and serpentine
• Talc, pyrophyllite, and amphiboles
• Carbonates
• Sulfates
• Hardness
•  Particle size

ASD’s systems provide multiple configurations, including field-portable, bench top and online options, allowing for streamlined analyses at any number of sites and facilities. Whether in the lab, on the conveyor belt, in the heap leach pile or on the excavation wall, ASD has a proven track record to meet the NIR needs of extraction metallurgy.