Exploration and physicochemical characterisation of Rayfield-Jos alluvial columbite deposit for effective mineral beneficiation and value metal recovery of niobium and tantalum

Abstract

This study primarily focuses on physicochemical analysis and characterisation of alluvial columbite deposit from Rayfield-Jos, Plateau state, Nigeria; as a promising source of Nb. Samples were characterised by PSD, morphological and chemical analyses. Other physical characteristics/properties such as SG, pH, moisture content and water absorption were performed. Morphologically, analysis showed particulates mainly of irregularly shaped, sub-hedral, sub-angular and spherical particles in the microstructure; indicating the presence of mostly columbite, silica and zirconia. Chemical analysis mainly showed oxide compositions of Nb2O5 as well as traces of certain other oxides. This study is aimed at providing in-depth comprehension of primary characterisation data and ascertaining general characteristics and physicochemical properties for exploitation and proper/appropriate beneficiation routes. It therefore creates baseline information/data on the choice, selection as well as designing feasible suitable extraction techniques or process routes in order to harness successfully and efficiently the Nb and other value metals from the study area.