Episode #5 – Extraction insights: How minerals are processed

The choice of extraction method depends on the type and complexity of the ore being processed. All separation techniques rely on exploiting the physical or chemical differences between valuable minerals and waste, and can be broadly grouped into:

• Gravity separation
• Magnetic and electrostatic separation
• Froth flotation
• Cyanide or heat leaching

Before separation, the ore must be finely ground in mills, reducing particle size from centimeters to microns to liberate the mineral grains. The required grind size is determined by factors such as mineralogy, concentrate quality, recovery targets, and economic feasibility.

Once separated, the valuable minerals undergo further refining to produce high-purity metals for industrial and everyday applications. However, ore mineralogy is not constant: changes in mineral composition over time can significantly impact processing efficiency. Maintaining a continuous understanding of mineralogy is therefore essential to ensure stable, cost-effective, and sustainable extraction.