An Analysis of the Fractional Distribution of the Substantial Composition of Limonitic Nickel Ore from Punta Gorda, Moa, Holguin, Cuba

Abstract

This paper evaluates the mass and content distribution of the lateritic ore supplied to the Caron process in Moa, Cuba. The description of the most contrasting physical properties, particle size and magnetic susceptibility with the use of fractional analysis methods was done. The products of fractional analysis were further set to the analytical techniques of X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), powder X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Atomic Absorption to determine the metallic and mineralogical phases. Statistical approaches were also used to validate the distribution functions. As a result of the research, the regularities of mass and content distribution of the following phases were determined: Ni, Co, Fe, Al, Mg, SiO, Mn and Cr. In addition, the joint fractional distribution functions that describe the mass and content of the aforementioned physical properties were found; an aspect that may allow for the possibility of identifying the particles according to the physical properties under study. These results may add up to the new knowledge about the possibilities of pre-concentration by elimination of components that do not have metal values of interest in the Caron process.

Keywords: Theory of Separation, Fractional Distribution Function, Laterite, Nickel