Síntese e caracterização de óxidos metálicos a partir do rejeito e scheelita

Abstract

Given the importance of mining to the seridoense economy, mainly due to the Brejuí Mine and the environmental liability arising from its tailings piles, this paper seeks to analyze the chemical composition of this mining tailing, in order to understand its various implications and economic uses. For laboratory analysis the sample was collected, ground, sieved at 200 degrees and quartered. Finally, it underwent the acid leaching procedure and was then characterized by the EDX process. The results showed significant values of CaO, SiO2, Fe2O3 and Al2O3, represented approximately 90%, the presence of WO3 (0.3%) and Rare Earth, in particular Tm2O3 (approximately 0.7%). Therefore, it is evident the great potential existing in scheelite tailings, which can be used for tungsten and rare earth extraction (minerals of wide use and economic value), as well as in the cement and mortar industry, by the significant percentages of CaO and SiO2. However, further studies are needed on the economic potential in practical terms, to enable viable and stable exploitation, as well as the necessary investments to do so.