The challenge
Complex mineralogy
Ore samples are often a complex mixture of crystalline and amorphous mineral phases.
Identification and quantification of the mineral phases is critical to understand the potential economics of an ore body.
The accuracy of traditional methods for determining crystalline vs amorphous mineral content can be compromised in highly complex mineral systems.
Our response
Application of advanced x-ray technology
A top-tier mining company approached us to get a better understanding of the nature and abundance of amorphous mineral phases in a complex titanium-bearing ore.
We used advanced X-ray diffraction techniques to reveal the mineralogical changes that occurred as a function of temperature as amorphous material crystallised during heating.
The results
Improved understanding of the complex mineralogy of the ore
These insights improved the company's understanding of the nature and abundance of amorphous mineral phases in a complex titanium-bearing ore.
This knowledge can be used to make decisions about the potential economics of an ore body, and options for downstream processing.