Application of quartz inversion phenomenon in mineral processing – A case study of siliceous manganese ores

Quartz undergoes a reversible change in crystal structure from α to β-quartz during its thermal treatment. Present study explored applicability of the phenomenon to break the phase interfaces between the quartz and other minerals present in siliceous manganese ores. Microscopic studies revealed that volume expansion of quartz initiates the fracture at phase interfaces. Detailed microscopic studies of fracture patterns reveal that these fractures can reduce the energy consumption during grinding and improve liberation of pyrolusite and quartz also. This approach is useful for processing of siliceous manganese ores and can be vital for processing of other siliceous ores also.

Quartz undergoes a reversible change in crystal structure from α to β-quartz during the thermal treatment. Siliceous manganese ore samples were thermal treated for grindability and liberation studies. It was found that volume expansion of quartz initiates the fracture at the phase interfaces as shown in the artwork (thermally treated silicious manganese ore (White – Pyrolusite, Gray – Quartz, Black – fracture)). Detailed microscopic studies of fracture patterns reveal that these fractures can reduce the energy consumption during grinding and improve liberation of pyrolusite and quartz also.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Quartz inversion phenomenon is applied to break the mineral interfaces.
► Experiments carried out with siliceous manganese ores.
► It can reduce energy consumption during grinding as well as enhance the mineral liberation.
► This concept can also be explored for other siliceous ores.