Characterization and mineral beneficiation of Egyptian glauconite for possible industrial use

A thorough characterization of a glauconite sample collected from a core drilled on the southeast edge of the Abu Tartur Plateau in the Western Desert of Egypt was carried out. The sample, which represents the upper part of the Campanian Duwi Formation, was examined using a petrographic polarizing microscope as well as X-ray diffraction and X-ray fluorescence methods. The magnetic behavior of the different size fractions was tested using a Frantz isodynamic separator prior to the beneficiation process. This process was conducted by both magnetic separation, using an Eriez rare earth roll magnetic separator, and heavy liquid gravity methods during the search for a higher grade of K₂O. A correlation between the mineral composition and magnetic behavior of the particles was shown. Two potassium oxide concentrates were obtained, having 6.8 and 6.22% K₂O, from an original sample containing 4.41% K₂O by weight. A blend of both products yielded a product having 6.42% K₂O with an overall recovery of 41.5%, which may satisfy the requirement of a natural fertilizer. The association of this product with phosphate and pyrite will help to remediate alkaline soils. In addition, a sulfur-rich coproduct containing 11.32% S with a recovery of 31.6% was obtained.