Integrated GCA–XRF characterization of REE-associated mineral enrichment in tin-processing residues from Bangka Island, Indonesia

  • Hanna Diva
    Universitas Negeri Padang
    Indonesia
  • Harizona Aulia Rahman 
    Universitas Negeri Padang
    Indonesia
  • Fadhilah
    Universitas Negeri Padang
    Indonesia
  • Ichsan Invanni Baharuddin
    Universitas Negeri Padang
    Indonesia
  • Mulya Gusman
    Universitas Negeri Padang
    Indonesia

Abstract

This study aims to characterize REE-associated mineral enrichment in tin-processing materials from Bangka Island, Indonesia, using integrated mineralogical and geochemical evidence. Mining-front material, mine tailings, and processing residues were prepared at comparable particle-size fractions and analyzed using Grain Counting Analysis (GCA) and X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF). Monazite increased from not detected in mining-front material to 1.18% in tailings and 6.14% in processing residues, while zircon increased to 0.25% and 4.26%, respectively. Processing residues contained the highest Y (9,510 ppm), Zr (1.209%), Nb (2,040 ppm), and Th (1,031 ppm) concentrations. The consistent mineralogical and geochemical trends indicate enrichment of REE-associated accessory minerals in processing residues. However, mineral-specific REE quantification, liberation, recovery, and economic assessments are required before these residues can be considered viable secondary REE resources.

Keywords
  • Tin deposits, Accessory minerals, Rare earth elements, Mineralogical characterization, Geochemical analysis
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