Characterization study of Baban Tsauni (Nigeria) lead-gold ore

This study characterized the Baban Tsauni lead-gold ore. The study included the use of XRD, XRF, AAS and both reflected and transmitted-light microscopy. The results showed that the ore consists mainly of galena (PbS), gold (Au) and quartz (basement rock complex). Cadmium can be extracted as a byproduct from this ore while sphalerite (ZnS) and covellite (CuS) occur as trace minerals. The mineralogical studies revealed that galena has coarse grains while the gangue mineral (quartz) has medium to massive grains. The textural relationship between galena and quartz showed a simple locking pattern while the gold is finely disseminated in the quartz. Chemical analysis revealed a mean lead grade of 27. 79% and a mean gold grade of 0. 02938%. The results indicated that galena can be separated by conventional gravity separation or froth flotation methods.