Use of high gradient magnetic separation in detailed clay mineral studies

Abstract

High gradient magnetic separation is a simple, inexpensive, nondestructive and rapid means of concentrating iron-bearing minerals to nearly monomineralic levels, particularly those present in undetectable proportions in soil clays. The use of variable magnetic flux density further allows subfractionation of the iron-bearing minerals. Besides iron content, the efficiency of high gradient magnetic separation is highly dependent on the particle size. The stability of suspension, suitable flow rates, contact time and the packing of steel wool are significant factors. -from Authors