MLA and optical microscopy as complementary techniques to the iron ore geometallurgical studies

Mineral liberation is an important variable to be considered in the iron ore geometallurgical studies, especially since it provides information leading understanding of ore’s behaviour beneficiation process, mainly when harder ores are concerned. Nowadays, professionals and researchers mineral industry have been using complementary techniques for mineralogical characterization. In this way, Liberation Analyser (MLA) optical microscopy amongst most efficient tools these studies. Together, can provide development models, including degree quartz liberation, modal composition, association particle size distribution, as well spectrum either by free surface or composition. The purpose study compare four different types observed MLA. It also assesses influence quality resulting concentrate, according SiO2 content. All results various degrees, determined both MLA were very close, correlation between response flotation process. investigation provided evidence that tool prediction