Research Article
Concentration of Bauxite and Iron Minerals from Onigboro Ironstone, Ogun State, Nigeria
Adedayo Omobamidele Adeuti*
,
Ebenezer Oluwatomi Ajaka
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 3, September 2025
Pages:
57-72
Received:
7 April 2025
Accepted:
17 April 2025
Published:
27 August 2025
Abstract: This research investigated the concentration of bauxite and iron minerals from the Onigboro Ironstone deposit in Ogun State, Nigeria, with the aim of optimizing mineral recovery through various beneficiation techniques. The primary objectives included identifying the mineralogical composition of the deposit, assessing the economic viability of the ironstone, and recommending appropriate concentration methods. In order to achieve these objectives, methods such as X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) and Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) Analyses were employed to determine the key mineralogy, including aluminum oxide, iron oxide, and silica. The findings revealed that the Onigboro Ironstone contains approximately 45% bauxite and 35% iron minerals, with the remaining 20% comprised of gangue materials including free silica. This mineral content indicated substantial potential for extraction and aligned with the study's goals of identifying valuable resources suitable for processing. The research employed gravity concentration techniques, including, spiral separation, shaking tables, and hindered settling, to evaluate their effectiveness in recovering valuable minerals from the ironstone. Shaking table emerged as the most efficient method, achieving recovery rates of 92% for Iron and 88% for bauxite. Spiral separators also demonstrated promising recovery rates but had some limitations in concentrate purity. The findings underlined the importance of optimizing comminution processes to enhance mineral liberation, which directly impacted recovery rates. The research was grounded in established theoretical frameworks, including Particle Separation Theory, Mineral Liberation Theory, and Gravity Separation Theory, which guided the optimization of concentration processes. These theories provided valuable insights into the mechanisms of mineral separation based on density differences, mineral liberation, and the efficiency of gravity-based techniques. In conclusion, the research offered recommendations for stakeholders in the mining sector, emphasizing the need for improved recovery strategies and sustainable practices of the Onigboro Ironstone deposit. Future research should focus on field studies, the application of advanced techniques, and multidisciplinary approaches to further improve mineral recovery and support sustainable mining practices.
Abstract: This research investigated the concentration of bauxite and iron minerals from the Onigboro Ironstone deposit in Ogun State, Nigeria, with the aim of optimizing mineral recovery through various beneficiation techniques. The primary objectives included identifying the mineralogical composition of the deposit, assessing the economic viability of the ...
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Research Article
Assessment on Gemstone Mining for Artisanal Miners in South Omo Zone, Ethiopia
Demeke Assefa*,
Ashenef Kassaye,
Getahun Meseret
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 3, September 2025
Pages:
73-79
Received:
9 July 2025
Accepted:
22 July 2025
Published:
23 September 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijmpem.20251003.12
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Abstract: The gemstone mining sector in Ethiopia's South Omo Zone is predominantly characterized by traditional, artisanal practices with minimal use of modern equipment and negligible integration into organized market structures. Despite the region’s abundance of valuable gemstone resources-including corundum (sapphire, ruby), beryl, and other semi-precious stones-especially in Hammer and Bena Tsemay woredas, the sector remains underdeveloped. Artisanal miners often operate with rudimentary tools, lacking technical training, access to finance, and support infrastructure such as transportation and water supply. The absence of geological surveys, reserve estimations, and standardized gemstone valuation exacerbates inefficiencies and limits market potential. Moreover, the lack of transparent benefit-sharing mechanisms and formal registration systems has led to widespread informal extraction and trade, reducing government and community revenues. The resulting information asymmetry creates tension between miners and exporters. Environmental and safety standards are largely unregulated, and institutional support is minimal. To address these challenges, this study recommends the implementation of structured interventions, including gemstone identification and valuation training, establishment of regional trading centers, promotion of public-private partnerships for value addition, and development of a transparent governance framework. Without strategic reform, the sector’s economic and developmental potential will remain untapped, risking unsustainable exploitation and limited local benefit.
Abstract: The gemstone mining sector in Ethiopia's South Omo Zone is predominantly characterized by traditional, artisanal practices with minimal use of modern equipment and negligible integration into organized market structures. Despite the region’s abundance of valuable gemstone resources-including corundum (sapphire, ruby), beryl, and other semi-precious...
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