Evaluation of Syenite as Feldspar Source: Piranshahr Pluton, NW of Iran

摘要

The syenites of Piranshahr pluton form homogeneous mesoperthite-rich rocks which are exposed over a large area (30 km2). With 85% modal composition of feldspar and rare ferromagnesian minerals, the syenites are petrographically suitable for feldspar exploration. The chemical composition of the Piranshahr syenites (i.e., high Al2O3 and (Na2O + K2O)) is also appropriate for potential feldspar mining. By means of an inexpensive concentration procedure that includes high-intensive magnetic separation and cation collector floatation, it is possible to achieve the needed feldspar composition (high Al2O3 (~20%), (Na2O + K2O) 12.5% and low FeOtot 0.25) for a marketable product. These data confirm economic potential of Piranshahr syenites as a huge feldspar source from the geologic and beneficiation perspectives.