On-line monitoring of spodumene flotation with novel time-resolved Raman Spectroscopy

摘要

On-line monitoring of the beneficiation process is one of the key issues for increasing the profitability in the mining industry. As the beneficiation treats minerals, one gets better data for process control, if gaining direct on-line quantification of minerals rather than elements. The novel time-resolved Raman spectroscopic measurement technique developed by Timegate Instruments is offering that. Compared to conventional Raman spectroscopy time-resolved method does not struggle with the fluorescence problems.Keliber Ltd. is moving forwards to start mining and processing of lithium ores in Finland. High quality lithium carbonate will be produced from the spodumene pegmatites using an innovative process developed together with Outotec and Geological Survey of Finland. The time-resolved Raman spectroscopy was successfully tested for multi-point on-line monitoring in continuous pilot flotation tests. The Raman measurements gave good results on mineral grades at different process stages. Corresponding measurement technique is planned to be implemented in the full-scale process.