Handbook

Most minerals must be processed before they are used. In this course, students will be introduced to the various key unit operations and the corresponding physical and chemical processing principles required to achieve mineral recovery from ores. Topics covered include ore handling, comminution, classification, physical separation, flotation, thickening and filtration, leaching, CIP and solvent extraction, and waste management. Some basic analytical tools for processing cost estimates and metallurgical mass balancing are covered. Key sustainability issues are also examined briefly, including the integration of mine to mill, the drive to reduce energy use in crushing and grinding, reduce water usage across all areas of processing, and minimise environmental damage. Some examples of processing routes including critical minerals are provided.