| Abstract Scope |
This research aims to develop an integrated beneficiation and extraction route for rare earth elements from complex mineral deposits and mining residues through the combination of physical concentration techniques and hydrometallurgical processes. The study will investigate mineralogical characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM–EDS), and automated mineralogy to determine the occurrence, distribution, and liberation of REE-bearing minerals. Beneficiation methods, including gravity concentration, magnetic separation, and froth flotation, will be optimized to produce high-grade concentrates, followed by selective acid leaching, solvent extraction, and precipitation for the recovery and purification of individual rare earth elements.The proposed approach seeks to improve metal recovery while reducing reagent consumption, energy demand, and environmental impacts associated with conventional processing routes. |