Mineralogical Characteristics of a Micro-Fine and Low Grade Refractory Gold Ore

Abstract

Detailed characterization of a micro-fine, low-grade refractory gold ore from a beneficiation plant in Yunnan Province, China, was investigated. Different analytical techniques, such as videlicet size analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and mineral analysis by a Mineral Liberation Analyser, were used for mineralogical characterization of the ore. The results show that the most valuable metal is gold. Grain size of pyrites and arsenian pyrites, which are main gold carrying minerals, are mostly 1 ~ 30 μ m. The gangue mineral is composed of quartz, mica, dolomite and feldspar, while the content of easy-to-float and clay gangue minerals is up to 33%.