Saudi Journal of Engineering and Technology (SJEAT)
Volume-11 | Issue-05 | 511-518
Original Research Article
Liberation Characteristics of Muro Iron Ore for Efficient Beneficiation Process
Olushola Bamidele Nenuwa, Oladunni Oyelola Alabi, Christopher Olatunde Ikubuwaje
Published : May 26, 2026
Abstract
The liberation size of Muro iron ore was determined by obtaining iron ore samples from Toto Local Government Area, Nasarawa State. The collected samples were subjected to crushing and grinding to reduce their size. The elemental composition and mineralogical characteristics of the ground sample were then examined via SEM-EDS analysis. Particle size analysis of the homogenised iron ore sample was conducted, and the sieve fractions obtained were chemically analysed with the X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer (XRF). The SEM-EDS analysis revealed that iron (Fe) and silicon (Si) were the most predominant elemental constituents with atomic percentages of 38.7% and 51.2%, respectively. The iron-bearing grains are most abundant at grain sizes less than 100µm. The mesh of grind (D80 value) of the iron ore was found to be 276 µm, the actual liberation size of the ore is -1180 + 850 µm, having the highest recovery of iron (Fe) at 44.85%. The 50% intersection, which indicates the economic liberation size of the ore is at -75 + 53 µm. Whenever Muro iron ore is ground in preparation for the concentration process, the economic liberation size of -75 + 53 µm should be adopted to prevent energy wastage through over-grinding and poor recovery due to under-grinding.