Phase transformations in ilmenite induced by electric discharge assisted mechanical milling

The recently developed synthesis technique of electric discharge assisted mechanical milling (EDAMM) is extended to minerals processing. This study examines phase changes during thermal decomposition and oxidation of ilmenite concentrate induced by EDAMM in a variety of inert and oxidising atmospheres. Products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results of this investigation demonstrate that thermal decomposition of the pseudorutile component of ilmenite concentrate occurs during EDAMM in less than 10 s and that oxidation of the ilmenite component occurs during EDAMM in less than 2 min in oxidising atmospheres.