Abstract

Separation methods are advanced techniques to segregate several components based on their characteristics and phases i.e. solid, liquid, or gas. Mineral ore processing contains proper usage of a series of chemical and mechanical operations. It helps in the extraction of the desired product from its initial stage. Several chemicals are used during the entire process. In this technical paper authors choose alkali and acidic leaching-based unique pitchblende ore for a case study of separation methods. Leaching is the heart of pitchblende mineral ore processing. It is a method for extracting desired products from the solid to liquid phase [1]. Based on ore characteristics, two types of leaching are involved i.e. acidic leaching and alkali leaching. Sodium Carbonate is the main reagent used for the pressurized alkali leaching process of pitchblende ore whereas sulphuric acid is used for acid leaching. In addition to this, several advanced separation techniques i.e. filtration, clarification, thickening, and drying are also performed for the extraction of the final product. This technical paper provides a glimpse of all the main separation techniques involved during mineral ore processing.

Keywords:Advanced separation techniques; Mineral processing; Leaching; Filtration; Chemical plant