The effect of microwave radiation on the processing of Palabora copper ore

The effect of microwave radiation on the processing of Palabora open ph ore has been investigated. Significant reductions in Bond work index are demon strated for microwave treated samples. Reductions in work index were found to be sensitive to applied power level, and method of application. After si ngle stage magnetic separation tests, improvements in recovery of FeO were noted. However, these were curtailed by oxidation of the magnetite species as a result of continued beating, The effects of microwave radiation upon t he recovery of copper after froth flotation were also quantified. Small ini tial increases in recovery of copper were noted after microwave treatment. However, with prolonged exposure, : : recovery was found to decrease. Overa ll recovery of copper was not affected except: for samples treated for exte nded duration. The influence of microwave treatment upon the conventional P alabora grinding circuit has been quantified with the use of USIMPAC softwa re. conclusions are made regarding the economics Of microwave treatment for this ore.