Grant: Engage Grants Program

Proposed research will improve our understanding of iron ore for the manufacture of steel. Ore bodies are often*complex mixtures of iron and non-iron minerals, which requires a multi-faceted approach to interpreting*mineralization. Standard analytical practices are sample destructive and therefore prevent the acquisition of*high-resolution mineralogical data necessary for a complete appreciation of ore-forming processes. This*information is critical for optimizing mining operations because it assists in selecting the most cost-effective*processing stream.*AGAT Laboratories is a highly specialized laboratory service provider that offers analytical solutions to the*mining, energy, environment, transportation, agri-food, and life sciences sectors. Iron ore companies that utilize*their services require a more detailed understanding of the factors affecting ore-grade to remain competitive.*Iron ore prices continue to fluctuate after the Great Recession and remain historically low. Therefore, the*application of new techniques like X-ray probe analysis to understand deposit mineralogy is especially*well-suited for academic-industry collaboration. Integration of X-ray probe data with information from*standard analyses will provide a more complete picture of deposit complexity, allowing mining companies to*more efficiently tune their extraction techniques. Our partnership will expand the capabilities of AGAT's world*class laboratories and ensure continued knowledge transfer at the forefront of the Earth sciences.*The main objectives of the project are: 1) to evaluate and interpret the mineralogy of four representative*high-grade iron ores using X-ray probe and standard analytical techniques, and 2) to develop the scientific and*technical basis for a more comprehensive iron ore analytical package for AGAT's clients. Results may provide*significant advantages for the Canadian mining industry.