Pegmatite Lithium Ore Separation Method

Pegmatite is a type of coarse-grained igneous rock that is commonly associated with lithium-bearing minerals, particularly spodumene. The beneficiation of pegmatite lithium ore mainly includes gravity separation, magnetic separation, and froth flotation.

1. Gravity separation: Gravity separation is commonly used in the beneficiation of pegmatite lithium ore. This method involves using the difference in density between the lithium mineral and the gangue minerals to separate them. Heavy media separation, jigging, and shaking table methods can all be used in gravity separation.

2. Magnetic separation: Magnetic separation is also commonly used in the beneficiation of pegmatite lithium ore. This method involves using the magnetic difference between the lithium mineral and the gangue minerals to separate them. High-gradient magnetic separation (HGMS) and wet high-intensity magnetic separation (WHIMS) are commonly used magnetic separation methods.

3. Froth flotation: Froth flotation is a commonly used method for the beneficiation of pegmatite lithium ore. This method involves using the difference in surface wettability between the lithium mineral and the gangue minerals to separate them. Flotation reagents such as collectors, frothers, and modifiers are added to the ore slurry to promote the selective adsorption of the lithium mineral on the bubble surface, while preventing the adsorption of the gangue minerals.

Overall, the selection of beneficiation method depends on the specific mineralogy and characteristics of the pegmatite lithium ore, as well as the economic and environmental considerations.