CHARACTERIZATION OF TALC-CARBONATE ROCK OF MINGORA EMERALD MINES, DISTRICT SWAT, KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA, PAKISTAN
Nisar Mohammad*, Mohammad Mansoor Khan* Noor Mohammad*
ABSTRACT
In present research characterization/ pre-concentration investigations study was done for low-grade talc- carbonate rock of Mingora emerald mines located in District Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. These rocks host emerald crystals and the debris are dumped after excavation and extraction of emerald crystals. Present research work was undertaken for devising a suitable and commercial processing technique for the said talc carbonate rocks. Thorough investigations were conducted using SEM-EDX X-Rays Diffraction (XRD) , Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), and Heavy Media Separation to determine talc content in the original rock. Petrographic study was made to know the nature of associated mineral impurities. Chemical composition and elemental impurities were determined by XRF spectrometer analysis. Grinding optimization study of the host rock using rod mill was also done. Whiteness of original talc carbonate rock and its magnetic content was also determined. The investigations reveal that talc content in the talc carbonate rock ranges from 60 to 70% with carbonates like magnesite and calcite as associated impurities. Optimum grinding time at which talc particles get liberated from gangue is 60 minutes and whiteness of the original rock is 50 to 60%.
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