minerals
Article
Clean Utilization of Limonite Ore by Suspension
Magnetization Roasting Technology
Jianping Jin 1,2 , Xinran Zhu 1,2 , Pengchao Li 1,2, *, Yanjun Li 1,2 and Yuexin Han 1,2






Citation: Jin, J.; Zhu, X.; Li, P.; Li, Y.;
Han, Y. Clean Utilization of Limonite
Ore by Suspension Magnetization
Roasting Technology. Minerals 2022,
12, 260. https://doi.org/10.3390/
min12020260
Academic Editors: Chiharu Tokoro,
Shigeshi Fuchida and Yutaro Takaya
Received: 13 January 2022
Accepted: 14 February 2022
Published: 17 February 2022
Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral
with regard to jurisdictional claims in
published maps and institutional affil-
iations.
Copyright: © 2022 by the authors.
Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.
This article is an open access article
distributed under the terms and
conditions of the Creative Commons
Attribution (CC BY) license (https://
creativecommons.org/licenses/by/
4.0/).
Minerals 2022, 12, 260. https://doi.org/10.3390/min12020260
1 School of Resources and Civil Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China;
jinjianping@mail.neu.edu.cn (J.J.); zhuxinran@mail.neu.edu.cn (X.Z.); liyanjun@mail.neu.edu.cn (Y.L.);
dongdafulong@mail.neu.edu.cn (Y.H.)
2 National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of High-Efficient Exploitation Technology for Refratory
Iron Ore Resources, Shenyang 110819, China
* Correspondence: 1910369@stu.neu.edu.cn
Abstract: As a typical refractory iron ore, the utilization of limonite ore with conventional mineral
processing methods has great limitations. In this study, suspension magnetization roasting technology
was developed and utilized to recover limonite ore. The influences of roasting temperature, roasting
time, and reducing gas concentration on the magnetization roasting process were investigated. The
optimal roasting conditions were determined to be a roasting temperature of 480 ◦ C, a roasting
time of 12.5 min, and a reducing gas concentration of 20%. Under optimal conditions, an iron
concentrate grade of 60.12% and iron recovery of 91.96% was obtained. The phase transformation,
magnetism variation, and microstructure evolution behavior were systematically analyzed by X-ray
diffraction, vibrating sample magnetometer, and scanning electron microscope. The results indicated
that hematite and goethite were eventually transformed into magnetite during the magnetization
roasting process. Moreover, the magnetism of roasted products significantly improved due to the
formation of ferrimagnetic magnetite in magnetization roasting. This study has implications for the
utilization of limonite ore using suspension magnetization roasting technology.
Keywords: clean utilization; suspension magnetization roasting; limonite ore; phase transformation;
magnetism
1. Introduction
As an abundant element on Earth, iron plays a vital role in industrial production
and ranks first in the world’s metal consumption [1–3]. In the development process of
the steel industry, iron ore is an indispensable and crucial industrial raw material [4,5].
Relevant statistics show that there are currently more than 800 billion tons of iron ore
globally, including 230 billion tons of iron. However, the annual consumption of iron ore in
the steel industry has increased up to 2.6 billion tons [6]. Considering the rapid depletion of
high-grade iron ore resources, the enrichment of low-grade iron ore in the form of limonite,
siderite, pyrite, etc., with poor endowment and no compliance with smelting requirements
has been further investigated [7–11].
Diverse mineral components, complex associated relationships between minerals,
and low-grade useful components are the main characteristics of refractory low-grade
iron ore. Moreover, the common impurity elements silicon, aluminum, and phosphorus
in the refractory iron ore mostly exist in the form of alumina, kaolinite, aluminosilicate,
chlorite, iron silicate, and iron olivine, and are complexed with iron minerals [12–14].
Currently, solvable methods for the efficient beneficiation of refractory low-grade iron ore
are further discussed, such as improving mineral liberation and developing highly efficient
separation processes, which have been explored to enhance refractory low-grade iron ore
separation [15–17]. In addition, some scholars have paid great attention to optimizing
traditional beneficiation techniques to improve the grade of refractory low-grade iron
https://www.mdpi.com/journal/minerals
Minerals 2022, 12, 260 2 of 13

ore. Froth flotation is an effective method to recover fine iron minerals, and numerous
investigations have been carried out on the recovery of refractory low-grade iron ore,
especially for fine-grained iron minerals [18–23]. Some specific flotation schemes, such as
shear flocculation flotation and carrier flotation, have been used to recover refractory low-
grade ore [24,25]. However, the limitations of separation efficiency and product quality are
the main problems in flotation. The technologies mentioned above promote the enrichment
of refractory low-grade iron ore. However, due to the complexity of the nature of low-grade
iron ore, these methods are limited to laboratory studies and far from satisfactorily meeting
the requirements of industrialized scale production.
As a common and widely distributed iron oxide ore resource, limonite ore is a typical
refractory low-grade iron ore. In addition to the common characteristics of refractory
low-grade iron ore, high crystal water content, loose structure, and easy sliming are the dis-
tinctive properties of limonite ore. Due to complex mineralogy, it is difficult to beneficiate
limonite ore by traditional technologies such as gravity separation, magnetic separation,
and flotation [26–29]. Furthermore, approximately 1.2 billion tons of limonite resources
in China have not been effectively exploited. Compared with conventional mineral pro-
cessing technologies, magnetic roasting with a low-intensity magnetic separation process
is an effective method for recovering refractory low-grade iron ore. According to the
different reduction substances in the magnetization roasting process, the existing mag-
netization roasting technologies include carbothermal reduction roasting, sulfur-based
roasting reduction, inorganic roasting reduction, and organic roasting reduction. Among
them, carbothermal reduction roasting technology has been extensively studied, and it
is a mature magnetized roasting process [30–34]. However, the existing carbothermal
reduction roasting process has higher requirements for the quality of the reducing agent
and has the disadvantages of high energy consumption and being a greater threat to the
environment [35]. Recently, suspension magnetization roasting technology, which has the
characteristics of environmental friendliness and effective beneficiation, has received more
attention. Previous reports indicated that suspension magnetization roasting technology is
an effective application in recovering refractory low-grade iron ore [36–39].
A suspension magnetization roasting and magnetic separation process of limonite ore
was systematically investigated in this study. The experiments of roasting temperature,
roasting time, reducing gas concentration, and magnetic intensity were conducted. During
the suspension magnetization roasting process, the phase transformation, magnetism vari-
ation, and microstructure evolution were studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD), vibrating
sample magnetometer (VSM), and scanning electron microscope (SEM).

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Materials
The limonite ore used in the study was obtained from Kunming, China. The sample
had a particle size of 60 wt.% particles less than 74 µm. Chemical composition analysis and
X-ray powder diffraction of the sample are shown in Table 1 and Figure 1, respectively.
As shown in Table 1, the iron content was 34.50%, and the FeO content was less than
0.10%. In addition, the contents of SiO2 , CaO, MgO, and Al2 O3 were 34.12%, 0.27%, 0.37%,
and 2.40%, respectively. Meanwhile, the content of harmful element P was 0.70%. The loss
on ignition (LOI) was 6.99%.
As shown in Figure 1, the main iron minerals in the ore were goethite and hematite,
and the main gangue minerals were quartz and polylithionite. A chemical phase analysis of
iron was performed to determine the main phase composition of the sample. The analysis
results are shown in Table 2.

Table 1. Analysis of the chemical composition of the limonite ore (mass, %).

Element TFe FeO SiO2 CaO MgO Al2 O3 S P LOI

Content 34.50 <0.10 34.12 0.27 0.37 2.40 <0.004 0.70 6.99
Minerals 2022, 12, 260 3 of 13

Table 1. Analysis of the chemical composition of the limonite ore (mass, %).
Minerals 2022, 12, 260 3 of 13
Element TFe FeO SiO2 CaO MgO Al2O3 S P LOI
Content 34.50 <0.10 34.12 0.27 0.37 2.40 <0.004 0.70 6.99

Figure
Figure 1.
1. XRD
XRDpattern
pattern of
of the
the limonite
limonite ore.
ore.

TableAs shown iniron

2. Chemical Figure 1, analysis
phase the mainof iron minerals
the limonite orein the ore
(mass, %). were goethite and hematite,
and the main gangue minerals were quartz and polylithionite. A chemical phase analysis
Ironofiniron was Iron in Hematite-
performed to determineIronthe
in main phaseIron in
composition Iron
of thein sample. The anal-
Iron Phase Total Iron
Magnetite Limonite Siderite Sulfide Silicate
ysis results are shown in Table 2.
Mass 0.00 As shown in 34.28 0.03 existed in the
Table 2, iron mainly 0.05 0.14 and hematite,
form of limonite 34.50 and
Distribution rate the distribution 99.36
0.00 rate of iron was 99.36%,
0.09 which was0.14 consistent with0.41
the analysis 100.00
results in
Figure 1. In addition, the distribution rates of iron in siderite, sulfide, and silicate were
0.09%,As0.14%,
shown andin 0.41%,
Table 2,respectively.
iron mainly existed in the form of limonite and hematite, and
the distribution rate of iron was 99.36%, which was consistent with the analysis results in
Table 2. Chemical iron phase analysis of the limonite ore (mass, %).
Figure 1. In addition, the distribution rates of iron in siderite, sulfide, and silicate were
0.09%, 0.14%, and Iron
0.41%, in respectively.
Iron in Hematite- Iron in Iron in Iron in
Iron
ThePhase
morphological characteristics of eachSiderite
mineral particle ore have anTotal Iron
Magnetite Limonite Sulfidein theSilicate important
influence
Masson the dissociation
0.00 of the mineral. The
34.28 intergrowth
0.03 0.05 relationship
0.14 and distribution
34.50
characteristics between
Distribution rate 0.00
useful minerals
99.36
and gangue
0.09
minerals
0.14
in raw ore were investigated
0.41 100.00
by optical microscopy. The analysis is shown in Figure 2. Limonite was mainly distributed
in the gangue in granular, massive, and disseminated forms as shown in Figure 2a–c. In
The morphological characteristics of each mineral particle in the ore have an im-
addition, the cavities of the limonite were covered with gangue minerals. The hematite
portant influence on the dissociation of the mineral. The intergrowth relationship and dis-
content in the ore was high, and the distribution was concentrated. Hematite was mostly
tribution characteristics between useful minerals and gangue minerals in raw ore were
produced in radial, fibrous, scaly, and granular shapes, and a small amount was produced
investigated by optical microscopy. The analysis is shown in Figure 2. Limonite was
in plate, flake, radial, filament, and needle-like shapes, as shown in Figure 2d,e. It was often
mainly distributed in the gangue in granular, massive, and disseminated forms as shown
a dense aggregate, a small amount of which was disseminated in the gangue (Figure 2f).
in Figure 2a–c. In addition, the cavities of the limonite were covered with gangue miner-
These results indicated a complicated relationship between useful minerals (limonite and
als. The hematite content in the ore was high, and the distribution was concentrated. Hem-
hematite) and gangue minerals. It is difficult to effectively separate limonite and hematite
atite was mostly produced in radial, fibrous, scaly, and granular shapes, and a small
from gangue minerals.
amount was produced in plate, flake, radial, filament, and needle-like shapes, as shown
in Figure 2d,e. It was often a dense aggregate, a small amount of which was disseminated
in the gangue (Figure 2f). These results indicated a complicated relationship between use-
ful minerals (limonite and hematite) and gangue minerals. It is difficult to effectively sep-
arate limonite and hematite from gangue minerals.
Minerals 2022,
Minerals 2022, 12, 260 4 4ofof 13
13

Figure
Figure 2.
2. Distribution
Distribution characteristics
characteristics of
of the
the main
main minerals
minerals in
in the
the ore:
ore: (a–c)
(a–c) denote
denote the
the limonite
limonite inlay
inlay
structure; (d–f) denote the inlay structure of hematite.
structure; (d–f) denote the inlay structure of hematite.

2.2.
2.2. Experimental
Experimental Equipment
Equipment and
and Methods
Methods
The
The limonite
limonite oreore was first crushed to − −22mm mmusingusingaa double
double roller
roller crusher
crusher and
and then
then
ground
ground to to 60 wt.% passing 74 μm µm by a ball ball mill.
mill. A suspension magnetization
magnetization roasting
roasting
system consistingofofa small
system consisting a small vertical
vertical tubetube furnace
furnace (OTF-1200X-S-VT,
(OTF-1200X-S-VT, HF-Kejing
HF-Kejing Hefei
Hefei China),
a multichannel
China), proton flowmeter
a multichannel control system
proton flowmeter control (GSL-LCD, HF-Kejing Hefei
system (GSL-LCD, China),
HF-Kejing and
Hefei
gas supply equipment was used in this study. Three parallel
China), and gas supply equipment was used in this study. Three parallel experiments experiments were carried out
for the
were conditional
carried out for experiments
the conditional of experiments
the suspension magnetization
of the roasting process.
suspension magnetization Each
roasting
error barEach
process. represents
error bar mean ± SD
therepresents theofmean
triplicate
± SDsamples.
of triplicate samples.
First, high-purity
First, high-puritynitrogen
nitrogengas gaswithwith a total
a total gas gas
flowflow
of 600ofmL/min
600 mL/min wastoused
was used emptyto
empty
the the
air in airfurnace
the in the furnace
tube. When tube. theWhen thetube
vertical vertical tubereached
furnace furnacethe reached thetempera-
required required
temperature,
ture, the prepared the prepared
sample was sample
put into wasthe put into the
furnace furnace
tube. Second, tube.
the Second,
mixture the mixture
of reducing
of reducing gas (CO gas
gas (CO gas and H2 gas) was passedand H 2 gas) into the furnace tube according to the designedtocon-
was passed into the furnace tube according the
designed concentration, and a total gas flow of 600 mL/min
centration, and a total gas flow of 600 mL/min was kept constant during the magnetic was kept constant during the
magneticprocess
roasting roasting(theprocess (the calculation
calculation for the of
for the mixture mixture
reducingof reducing gas concentration
gas concentration is shown is
shown
in in Equation
Equation (1)). the
(1)). When When the specified
specified roasting roasting
time was timereached,
was reached, the reducing
the reducing gas
gas was
was stopped,
stopped, and theandfurnace
the furnace
tube wastuberemoved
was removed for cooling
for cooling to room to temperature
room temperature using
using nitro-
nitrogen as a protective gas at the same time. The cooled roasted
gen as a protective gas at the same time. The cooled roasted products were ground to the products were ground
to the required
required particle particle size; subsequently,
size; subsequently, low-intensity
low-intensity magnetic magnetic separation
separation experiments
experiments were
were carried out using a magnetic separation tube (XCSG–120).
carried out using a magnetic separation tube (XCSG–120). After magnetic separation, After magnetic separation,
the
the magnetic
magnetic product
product was was the final
the final concentrate,
concentrate, andnonmagnetic
and the the nonmagnetic product
product wastail-
was the the
tailings.
ings. The The
iron iron
grade grade
of theofconcentrate
the concentrate and tailings
and tailings were detected
were detected by theby the laboratory
laboratory using
chemical analysis methods, and the recovery of iron was calculated accordingaccording
using chemical analysis methods, and the recovery of iron was calculated to Equation to
Equation (2). According to the characteristics of suspension magnetization roasting, the
(2). According to the characteristics of suspension magnetization roasting, the influences
influences of roasting temperature, roasting time, and reducing gas concentration on the
of roasting temperature, roasting time, and reducing gas concentration on the magnetiza-
magnetization roasting process were investigated.
tion roasting process were investigated.
CR = (QCO + QH )/(QN + QCO + QH ) × 100% (1)
(1)
CR = (QCO + QH)/(QN + QCO + QH) × 100%
is the reducing gas concentration
where CRR is and Q
concentration and CO, QH
QCO H,, and
and QNN are
are the CO, H2,, and N2
flow rates,
flow rates, respectively.

ϕ =φ(β/α)
= (β/α)·(α
·(α − −θ)/(β
θ)/(β−
− α) × 100%
α) × 100% (2)
(2)
where α, β, and θ are the iron grades of the raw sample, magnetic concentrates, and tail-
ings, respectively, and φ is the iron recovery.
Minerals 2022, 12, 260 5 of 13

Minerals 2022, 12, 260 5 of 13

where α, β, and θ are the iron grades of the raw sample, magnetic concentrates, and tailings,
respectively, and ϕ is the iron recovery.
2.3. Sample Analysis Methods
2.3. Sample Analysis Methods
In this study, the mineralogical composition of raw samples, roasted products, and
In thisseparation
magnetic study, the products
mineralogical was composition
detected by of raw samples, roasted
a polycrystalline X-ray products, and
diffractometer
magnetic separation products was detected by a polycrystalline
(PW3040, PANalytical B.V., Netherlands). The polycrystalline X-ray diffractometer was X-ray diffractometer
(PW3040,
equippedPANalytical
with a 2.2 kW B.V.,
CuAlmelo,
anode with The aNetherlands).
long, fine-focus The polycrystalline
ceramic X-ray tube X-ray diffrac-
for generat-
tometer
ing Cu Ka radiation. Its operating parameters were as follows: tube voltage 40 kV, tube
was equipped with a 2.2 kW Cu anode with a long, fine-focus ceramic X-ray tube
for generating
current 40 mA,Cu Ka radiation.
scanning range, 2θ Itsrange
operating parameters
= 5–90°, were as
step scanning, follows:
step length tube voltage
0.033°, dwell
40 kV,20.68
tubes,current 40 mA, scanning range, 2θspeed
range12°·min
= 5–90−1 ◦ , step scanning, step length
time ◦
wavelength 0.1541 nm, scanning , and◦operating temperature
0.033
298 K., dwell
Then, time 20.68patterns
the XRD s, wavelength 0.1541 nm,
were analyzed scanning
using speed 12
the software ·min−1HighScore
package , and operating
Plus.
temperature 298 K. file
Powder diffraction Then, thedatabase
(PDF) XRD patternsand the were analyzed
standard datausing the software
card JCPDS cards werepackage
used
HighScore Plus. Powder diffraction file (PDF) database and the standard
for qualitative phase analysis of sample data during the analysis process. Finally, the an- data card JCPDS
cards were used for qualitative phase analysis of sample data during the analysis process.
alyzed data without noise reduction was plotted using OriginPro 8.5 software. The iron
Finally, the analyzed data without noise reduction was plotted using OriginPro 8.5 software.
phase of samples was analyzed by physical and chemical methods. [3].
The iron phase of samples was analyzed by physical and chemical methods [3].
A field emission scanning electron microscope (Zeiss Ultra Plus, Zeiss Microscopy
A field emission scanning electron microscope (Zeiss Ultra Plus, Zeiss Microscopy Co.,
Co., Ltd., Germany) equipped with Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS) analyses was
Ltd., Jena, Germany) equipped with Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS) analyses was
used to analyze the micromorphology of the reduced samples. The working parameters
used to analyze the micromorphology of the reduced samples. The working parameters
were as follows: acceleration voltage 15 Kv; magnification was set according to actual de-
were as follows: acceleration voltage 15 Kv; magnification was set according to actual
mand. The SE2 and BSE modes were used to collect images, the EDS energy spectrum was
demand. The SE2 and BSE modes were used to collect images, the EDS energy spectrum was
used to collect the elements on the surface of the sample, and the instrument’s SmartSEM
used to collect the elements on the surface of the sample, and the instrument’s SmartSEM
software (Version 5.05) was used to analyze the collected images and energy spectrum
software (Version 5.05) was used to analyze the collected images and energy spectrum data.
data. In the data analysis process, the EDS energy spectrum data was quantitatively
In the data analysis process, the EDS energy spectrum data was quantitatively analyzed
analyzed according
according to the
to the relative relative
mass contentmassandcontent and
relative relative
atomic atomic
number number
content of content of the
the elements.
elements.
A vibrating sample magnetometer (JDAW2000D, Changchun, China) was used to
detectAthe vibrating
magnetic sample magnetometer
properties of raw samples,(JDAW2000D, Changchun,
roasted products, China) was
and magnetic used to
separation
detect the magnetic
products. The initial properties of raw samples,
magnetization curves and roasted products,
hysteresis loopsandofmagnetic
the samplesseparation
were
tested in magnetizing magnetic field intensity ranges of 0 kA·m to 800 kA·m−1tested
products. The initial magnetization curves and hysteresis loops of the
− 1 samples were and
−in800
magnetizing
kA·m−1 tomagnetic
800 kA·mfield intensity ranges
−1 , respectively. Theof 0 kA·mmagnetization
specific
−1 to 800 kA·m−1 and −800 kA·m−1
coefficient curves
tothe
of 800samples
kA·m−1, were
respectively.
obtainedThe specific magnetization
by analyzing coefficient curves
the initial magnetization curvesofaccording
the samplesto
were obtained
Equation (8). by analyzing the initial magnetization curves according to Equation (8).
χ =M
χ =M b/H
b /H b b (3)
(3)
whereM
where and H
Mbb and Hbb are the
the specific
specific magnetization
magnetization and
and the
the external
external magnetic
magnetic field
field strength,
strength,
respectively,
respectively, and
and χχisisthe
thespecific
specificmagnetic
magneticsusceptibility.
susceptibility. The
The process
process flow
flow diagram
diagram isis
shown
shownininFigure
Figure3.3.

Figure3.3.Flow
Figure Flowchart
chartofofthe
theexperiment
experimentprocess.
process.
Minerals 2022, 12, 260 Minerals 2022, 12, 260 6 of 13 6 o

3. Results and Discussion

3. Results and Discussion
3.1. Magnetization3.1.Roasting Experiments
Magnetization Roasting Experiments
3.1.1. Effect of Roasting Temperature
3.1.1. Effect of Roasting Temperature
Temperature is aTemperature
crucial influencing factor
is a crucial in the suspension
influencing factor in themagnetization roasting
suspension magnetization roast
process. The effect of temperature on suspension magnetization roasting was investigated
process. The effect of temperature on suspension magnetization roasting was investiga
under the following
underconditions:
the followinga reducing
conditions:gas concentration
a reducing of 20% (COofconcentration
gas concentration 20% (CO concentration
of 5%, H2 concentration 15%), a reduction
5%, H2 concentration time of 12.5
15%), a reduction timemin, a grinding
of 12.5 size of size
min, a grinding 75 wt.%
of 75 wt.% pa
particles less than
cles43less
µm, and43a μm,
than magnetic
and a intensity
magnetic of 85.17 kA/m.
intensity of 85.17The effect
kA/m. Theofeffect
roasting
of roasting te
temperature on perature
the magneticon the magnetic separation
separation is shown inisFigure
shown 4a.
in Figure 4a.

Figure 4. Effect ofFigure 4. Effect

roasting of roasting
conditions conditions
on the onand
recovery the recovery
Fe gradeand Fe grade
of the of theconcentrate:
magnetic magnetic concentrate
(a) roasting temperature, (b) roasting time, (c) reducing gas concentration, (d) magnetic fieldmagnetic
roasting temperature, (b) roasting time, (c) reducing gas concentration, (d) intensity.field intens

As shown
As shown in Figure 4a, theiniron
Figure
grade4a,ofthe iron
iron grade of iron
concentrate concentrate
fluctuated fluctuated
slightly when the slightly wh
the temperature increased
◦ ◦from 460 °C to 500 °C. When
temperature increased from 460 C to 500 C. When the temperature increased from 500 Cthe temperature increased
◦ fr
◦ 500 °C to 560 °C, the iron grade of the concentrate gradually
to 560 C, the iron grade of the concentrate gradually increased from 59.23% to 60.86%. increased from 59.23%
60.86%.
Conversely, the iron Conversely,
recovery the iron
gradually recovery
decreased gradually
with decreased
increasing with increasing
temperature; when thetemperatu
when the temperature
◦ increased
◦ from 480 °C to 560 °C,
temperature increased from 480 C to 560 C, the iron recovery decreased from 90.95% the iron recovery decreased fr
90.95% to 87.55%. The test results showed that an increase in temperature could impro
to 87.55%. The test results showed that an increase in temperature could improve the
the magnetization roasting process. However, an excessively high temperature will ca
magnetization roasting process. However, an excessively high temperature will cause an
an over-reduction as in Equations (4) and (5), and the formation of wustite (FeO) will f
over-reduction as in Equations (4) and (5), and the formation of wustite (FeO) will further
ther affect the magnetic separation of roasted products, resulting in a decrease in i
affect the magnetic separation of roasted products, resulting in a decrease in iron recovery.
recovery. Therefore, the appropriate roasting temperature was determined to be 480
Therefore, the appropriate roasting temperature was determined to be 480 ◦ C, and an iron
and an iron concentrate with iron grade of 59.77% and recovery of 90.95% was obtaine
concentrate with iron grade of 59.77% and recovery of 90.95% was obtained.
Fe3O4 + H2(g) = 3FeO + H2O(g)
Fe3 O4 + H2 (g) = 3FeO + H2 O(g) (4)
Fe3O4 + CO(g) = 3FeO + CO2(g)
Fe3 O4 + CO(g) = 3FeO + CO2 (g) (5)
Minerals 2022, 12, 260 7 of 13

3.1.2. Effect of Roasting Time

The effect of roasting time on suspension magnetization roasting was investigated
under the following conditions: a reducing gas concentration of 20% (CO concentration of
5%, H2 concentration 15%), a reduction temperature of 480 ◦ C, a grinding size of 75 wt.%
particles less than 43 µm, and a magnetic intensity of 85.17 kA/m. The effect of roasting
time on the iron concentrate grade and iron recovery is presented in Figure 4b.
As shown in Figure 4b, the iron recovery of magnetic concentrate increased rapidly
with an increase in roasting time. When the roasting time was extended from 5 min to
10 min, the recovery of iron concentrate increased rapidly from 27.53% to 89.61%. As the
roasting time continued to increase, the iron recovery of concentrate gradually slowed
down. Meanwhile, the iron grade of magnetic concentrate fluctuated slightly when the
roasting time increased from 5 min to 15 min. Therefore, the appropriate roasting time is
determined to be 12.5 min, and an iron concentrate with iron grade of 60.04% and recovery
of 89.06% was obtained.

3.1.3. Effect of Reducing Gas Concentration

The effect of reducing gas concentration on magnetization roasting was investigated
by a reducing gas concentration from 10% to 50%, a roasting temperature of 480 ◦ C, and
a reduction time of 12.5 min, a grinding size of 75 wt.% particles less than 43 µm, and a
magnetic intensity of 85.17 kA/m. The effect of reducing gas concentration on the iron
grade and recovery of iron concentrate is shown in Figure 4c.
As shown in Figure 4c, as the concentration of reducing gas increased, iron grade and
recovery first increased and then decreased. The iron recovery reached the maximum of
91.62% when the reducing gas concentration was 20%. As the reducing gas concentration
continued to increase, the iron recovery began to decrease. This is because excess reducing
gas leads to the formation of FeO, which lowers the iron recovery of subsequent magnetic
separation. Therefore, the appropriate reducing gas concentration was determined to
be 20%.

3.1.4. Effect of Magnetic Field Intensity

The effect of magnetic field intensity was investigated under the following conditions:
a roasting temperature of 480 ◦ C, a reducing gas concentration of 20% (CO concentration of
5%, H2 concentration 15%), a reduction time of 12.5 min, and a grinding size of 75 wt.%
particles less than 43 µm. The results are shown in Figure 4d.
As shown in Figure 4d, the iron recovery increased from 90.90% to 93.56% when the
magnetic field intensity increased from 63.7 kA/m to 143.3 kA/m. Conversely, a decrease
in iron grade occurred as the magnetic field intensity increased. This trend may be due to
the magnetic agglomeration during magnetic separation process, in which some gangue
minerals are mixed in the magnetic concentrate, resulting in a decrease in iron grade.
Therefore, the suitable magnetic field intensity was determined to be 85.17 kA/m, and the
iron grade and recovery of the concentrate were 60.12% and 91.96%, respectively.

3.2. Phase Transformation

The phase transformation process of the sample during the magnetization roasting
process was studied in detail through XRD. The XRD patterns of raw ore, roasted products,
and iron concentrate were compared and analyzed. The results are plotted in Figure 5.
 magnetic separation. In addition, there was still a small amount of quartz in iron concen-
trate, and this part of quartz can be further removed by the flotation process.
Fe2O3·nH2O = Fe2O3 + nH2O(g) (6)
3Fe2O3 + CO(g)= 2Fe3O4 + CO2(g) (7)
Minerals 2022, 12, 260 8 of 13
3Fe2O3 + H2(g)= 2Fe3O4 + H2O(g) (8)

Figure
Figure 5.
5. XRD
XRDpattern
patternanalysis
analysis of
of raw
raw ore,
ore, roasted
roasted sample,
sample, and
and iron
iron ore concentrate.

As shown
The in Figure 5, theunder
phase transformation iron indifferent
the raw roasting
ore mainly existed
times in theinform
is shown Figureof 6.
goethite
Com-
and hematite.
pared with theCompared
XRD patternwithof the
the raw
raw ore
ore,samples,
when thethe diffraction
roasting timepeak
was 5ofmin,
iron the
minerals in
diffrac-
roasted
tion peaksamples was only
of goethite magnetite,
disappeared, andwhich indicated
goethite that the goethite
was transformed into and hematite
hematite in the
by dehy-
sample as
dration were converted(6).
in Equation to magnetite in the magnetization
With the increase roasting
in roasting time, process; simultaneously,
the diffraction peaks inten-
sity of hematite gradually weakened, some diffraction peaks of hematitemagnetic
the magnetite in the roasted product could be recovered by low-intensity gradually separa-
van-
tion. In addition, there was still a small amount of quartz in iron concentrate,
ished, and the diffraction peaks of magnetite gradually appeared. When the roasting time and this part
of quartz can be further removed by the flotation process.
was 12.5 min, the diffraction peak of hematite disappeared completely, and the primary
iron mineral was magnetite. This indicated that the goethite and hematite in the raw ore
Fe2 O3 ·nH2 O = Fe2 O3 + nH2 O(g) (6)
could be converted into magnetite in magnetization roasting.
3Fe2 O3 + CO(g)= 2Fe3 O4 + CO2 (g) (7)
3Fe2 O3 + H2 (g)= 2Fe3 O4 + H2 O(g) (8)
The phase transformation under different roasting times is shown in Figure 6. Com-
pared with the XRD pattern of the raw ore, when the roasting time was 5 min, the diffraction
peak of goethite disappeared, and goethite was transformed into hematite by dehydration
as in Equation (6). With the increase in roasting time, the diffraction peaks intensity of
hematite gradually weakened, some diffraction peaks of hematite gradually vanished,
and the diffraction peaks of magnetite gradually appeared. When the roasting time was
12.5 min, the diffraction peak of hematite disappeared completely, and the primary iron
mineral was magnetite. This indicated that the goethite and hematite in the raw ore could
be converted into magnetite in magnetization roasting.

Figure 6. XRD analysis of roasted samples at different roasting times.

 tion peak of goethite disappeared, and goethite was transformed into hematite by dehy-
dration as in Equation (6). With the increase in roasting time, the diffraction peaks inten-
sity of hematite gradually weakened, some diffraction peaks of hematite gradually van-
ished, and the diffraction peaks of magnetite gradually appeared. When the roasting time
was 12.5 min, the diffraction peak of hematite disappeared completely, and the primary
Minerals 2022, 12, 260 9 of 13
iron mineral was magnetite. This indicated that the goethite and hematite in the raw ore
could be converted into magnetite in magnetization roasting.

Minerals 2022, 12, 260 9 of 13

Figure
Figure6.
6.XRD
XRDanalysis
analysisof
ofroasted
roastedsamples
samplesat
atdifferent
different roasting
roasting times.
times.

3.3. Magnetism Analysis

The magnetism
magnetism properties
propertiesof ofroasted
roastedproducts
productsatatdifferent
differentroasting
roasting times
times were
were stud-
studied
ied using
using VSM, VSM,
andandthethe results
results were
were shown
shown in in Figures7–9.
Figures 7–9.As Asthe
the roasting
roasting time
time extended
from 55 minmintoto1515min,min,thethe
saturation magnetization
saturation magnetizationincreased
increased from 16.4216.42
from Am2Am/kg 2to/kg
30.71
to
30.71
Am 2/kg, 2
Amand /kg, and
the the magnetic
magnetic susceptibility
susceptibility maximum
maximum increased
increased fromfrom1.671.67 ×m
× 10−4 −4 m
103/kg to32.88
/kg
×to10
2.88
−4 m 10−in
×3/kg 4 m3 /kg in this process. Moreover, when the roasting time was 12.5 min, the
this process. Moreover, when the roasting time was 12.5 min, the roasted
roasted product
product with saturation
with saturation magnetization
magnetization of 30.10of
Am30.10
2/kgAmand2 /kg and maximum
maximum magneticmagnetic
suscep-
− 4 3
tibility of 2.85 ×of102.85m×/kg
susceptibility −4 3 10wasmobtained.
/kg wasTheobtained. The magnetism
magnetism variation invariation in magneti-
magnetization roast-
zation
ing wasroasting
mainly duewas to mainly due to the
the formation formation which
of magnetite, of magnetite, which is amineral.
is a ferrimagnetic ferrimagnetic
Thus,
mineral.
the Thus, the
magnetism magnetism
of roasted of roasted
products productsimproved
significantly significantly improved
in this in with
process this process
the in-
with
creasethein increase
the contentin the content of magnetite.
of magnetite.

Figure 7. Magnetization curves of roasted products.

Minerals 2022, 12, 260 10 of 13

Figure 7. Magnetization curves of roasted products.

Minerals 2022, 12, 260 10 of 13

Magnetic susceptibility
Figure 8. Magnetic susceptibility curves of roasted products.

Figure
Figure 9.
9. Hysteresis
Hysteresis loops
loops of
of roasted
roasted products.
products.

3.4. Microstructure
3.4. Microstructure Evolution
Evolution Analysis
Analysis
The microscopic
The microscopic morphology
morphology changes
changes of of the
the raw
raw ore
ore and
and roasted
roasted ore ore were
were observed
observed
using SEM-EDS, and the results were shown in Figure 10. As
using SEM-EDS, and the results were shown in Figure 10. As Figure 10a,b show, the ap-Figure 10a,b show, the
appearance of iron mineral particles was a flaky structure, and the surface
pearance of iron mineral particles was a flaky structure, and the surface was relatively was relatively
flat, without
flat, without cracks.
cracks. The
The iron
iron minerals
minerals had had radial
radial and
and needle-like
needle-like shapes
shapes in in the
the internal
internal
cross-section; simultaneously,
cross-section; simultaneously, the the inside
inside of
of the
the section
section was
was relatively
relatively dense,
dense, with
with almost
almost
no cracks
no cracks or
or pores.
pores. AsAs shown
shown inin Figure
Figure 10e,f,
10e,f, with
with aa roasting
roasting time
time ofof 33 min,
min, cracks
cracks began
began
to appear on the surface of mineral particles, while cracks and pores
to appear on the surface of mineral particles, while cracks and pores appeared inside the appeared inside
the particles.
particles. The appearance
The appearance of thisofphenomenon
this phenomenon was related
was related to the dehydration
to the dehydration and
and decom-
decomposition of goethite in high-temperature roasting. As shown in
position of goethite in high-temperature roasting. As shown in Figure 10g,h, with the ex- Figure 10g,h, with
the extension
tension of the roasting
of the roasting time, tinytime, tinyoncracks
cracks on theofsurface
the surface of the
the mineral mineralcontinued
particles particles
continued to develop and formed large cracks. Simultaneously, cracks
to develop and formed large cracks. Simultaneously, cracks appeared inside the ore par- appeared inside the
ore particles, and the number of internal pores also increased. This phenomenon
ticles, and the number of internal pores also increased. This phenomenon could be mainly could be
mainly due to the rapid release of water vapor and CO2 generated by the rapid reactions of
due to the rapid release of water vapor and CO2 generated by the rapid reactions of re-
reducing gases with hematite.
ducing gases with hematite.
Minerals
Minerals 2022,
2022, 12,
12, 260
260 1111ofof13
13

Figure
Figure 10.
10. SEM–EDS
SEM–EDSanalysis
analysisof
ofraw
rawore
oreand
androasted
roastedproducts:
products: (a–c)
(a–c)raw
rawore;
ore;(d–f)
(d–f)roasted
roastedproduct
product
of 3 min; (g–i) roasted product of 12.5 min.
of 3 min; (g–i) roasted product of 12.5 min.

4.
4. Conclusions
Conclusions
(1)
(1)This
Thisresearch
research demonstrated
demonstrated thatthat limonite
limonite and
andhematite
hematitewere
werereduced
reduced totomagnetite
magnetite
in
in the suspension
suspensionmagnetization
magnetizationroasting
roasting process.
process. TheThe optimal
optimal conditions
conditions werewere deter-
determined
mined as a reduction temperature ◦
of 480 °C, reducing gas of CO and H
as a reduction temperature of 480 C, reducing gas of CO and H2 with a concentration of2 with a concentra-
tion
20%,of 20%, reducing
reducing timemin,
time of 12.5 of 12.5 min, magnetic
magnetic intensity
intensity of of 85.17
85.17 kA/m, andkA/m,
an ironand an iron
concentrate
with iron grade
concentrate withofiron
60.12%
gradeand
of recovery
60.12% and of 91.96%
recoverywas obtained.
of 91.96% was obtained.
(2) XRD
(2) XRD and SEM–EDS
SEM–EDS analysis
analysis results
resultsindicated
indicatedthat
thatgoethite
goethitedehydrated
dehydrated toto
hematite
hema-
in high-temperature
tite in high-temperature roasting; then
roasting; thenhematite
hematitewaswastransformed
transformedintointo magnetite
magnetite with the the
reducing gas. Pores and cracks appeared on the surface and inside
reducing gas. Pores and cracks appeared on the surface and inside of the ore particle, of the ore particle,
which is
which is conducive
conducive to to the
the reduction
reduction reaction.
reaction. Based
Based on
on the
the VSM
VSM analysis,
analysis, the
the magnetism
magnetism
of roasted products significantly improved in magnetization roasting,
of roasted products significantly improved in magnetization roasting, which is due which is due to
to the
the
formation of
formation of ferrimagnetic
ferrimagnetic magnetite.
magnetite.

Author Contributions:
Author Conceptualization,J.J.
Contributions: Conceptualization, J.J.and
andX.Z.;
X.Z.;data
datacuration,
curation,P.L.;
P.L.;formal
formalanalysis,
analysis,P.L.;
P.L.;
funding acquisition,
funding acquisition, Y.H.
Y.H.and
andX.Z.;
X.Z.;investigation,
investigation,P.L.; project
P.L.; administration,
project Y.H.
administration, andand
Y.H. Y.L.;Y.L.;
writing—
writ-
original draft,draft,
ing—original P.L.; writing—review & editing,
P.L.; writing—review J.J. All authors
& editing, have read
J.J. All authors andread
have agreed
andto agreed
the published
to the
version of the manuscript.
published version of the manuscript.
National Natural
Funding: National
Funding: Natural Science
Science Foundation
Foundation of
of China
China (Nos.
(Nos. 52104249,
52104249, 51734005,
51734005, 51874071),
51874071), and
and
China Postdoctoral
China Postdoctoral Science
Science Foundation
Foundation (No.
(No. 2021M700726).
2021M700726).
This work
Acknowledgments: This
Acknowledgments: work was
was financially
financially supported
supported by
by National
National Natural
Natural Science
Science Foundation
Foundation
of China
of China (Nos.
(Nos. 52104249,
52104249,51734005,
51734005,51874071),
51874071),and
andChina
ChinaPostdoctoral
PostdoctoralScience
ScienceFoundation
Foundation(No.
(No.
2021M700726), for
2021M700726), for which
which the
the authors
authors express
express their
their appreciation.
The authors
Conflicts of Interest: The
Conflicts authors declare no conflict of interest.
Minerals 2022, 12, 260 12 of 13

References
1. Laguna, C.; González, F.; García-Balboa, C.; Ballester, A.; Blázquez, M.; Muñoz, J.A. Bioreduction of iron compounds as a possible
clean environmental alternative for metal recovery. Miner. Eng. 2011, 24, 10–18. [CrossRef]
2. Nakhaei, F.; Irannajad, M. Reagents types in flotation of iron oxide minerals: A review. Miner. Process. Extr. Met. Rev. 2017, 39,
89–124. [CrossRef]
3. Zhang, X.; Han, Y.; Sun, Y.; Li, Y. Innovative utilization of refractory iron ore via suspension magnetization roasting: A pilot-scale
study. Powder Technol. 2019, 352, 16–24. [CrossRef]
4. Yu, J.-W.; Han, Y.-X.; Li, Y.-J.; Gao, P. Growth behavior of the magnetite phase in the reduction of hematite via a fluidized bed. Int.
J. Miner. Met. Mater. 2019, 26, 1231–1238. [CrossRef]
5. Wang, Y.-Z.; Zhang, J.-L.; Liu, Z.-J.; Du, C.-B. Recent Advances and Research Status in Energy Conservation of Iron Ore Sintering
in China. JOM 2017, 69, 2404–2411. [CrossRef]
6. USGS. Mineral Commodity Summaries 2021; U.S. Geological Survey: Reston, VA, USA, 2021; pp. 88–90.
7. Yuan, S.; Zhou, W.; Han, Y.; Li, Y. Selective enrichment of iron particles from complex refractory hematite-goethite ore by
coal-based reduction and magnetic separation. Powder Technol. 2020, 367, 305–316. [CrossRef]
8. Peng, T.; Gao, X.; Li, Q.; Xu, L.; Luo, L.; Xu, L. Phase transformation during roasting process and magnetic beneficiation of
oolitic-iron ores. Vacuum 2017, 146, 63–73. [CrossRef]
9. Tang, Z.; Gao, P.; Li, Y.; Han, Y.; Li, W.; Butt, S.; Zhang, Y. Recovery of iron from hazardous tailings using fluidized roasting
coupling technology. Powder Technol. 2020, 361, 591–599. [CrossRef]
10. Zhang, Q.; Sun, Y.; Han, Y.; Li, Y. Pyrolysis behavior of a green and clean reductant for suspension magnetization roasting. J.
Clean. Prod. 2020, 268, 122173. [CrossRef]
11. Zhang, K.; Ge, Y.; Guo, W.; Li, N.; Wang, Z.; Luo, H.; Hu, Q.; Li, B.; Wu, W.; Shang, S. Phase transition and magnetic properties of
low-grade limonite during reductive roasting. Vacuum 2019, 167, 163–174. [CrossRef]
12. Mochizuki, Y.; Tsubouchi, N. Upgrading Low-Grade Iron Ore through Gangue Removal by a Combined Alkali Roasting and
Hydrothermal Treatment. ACS Omega 2019, 4, 19723–19734. [CrossRef] [PubMed]
13. Wu, F.; Cao, Z.; Wang, S.; Zhong, H. Novel and green metallurgical technique of comprehensive utilization of refractory limonite
ores. J. Clean. Prod. 2018, 171, 831–843. [CrossRef]
14. Pownceby, M.I.; Hapugoda, S.; Manuel, J.; Webster, N.A.; MacRae, C. Characterisation of phosphorus and other impurities in
goethite-rich iron ores—Possible P incorporation mechanisms. Miner. Eng. 2019, 143, 106022. [CrossRef]
15. Zhu, D.-Q.; Wang, H.; Pan, J.; Yang, C.-C. Influence of Mechanical Activation on Acid Leaching Dephosphorization of High-
phosphorus Iron Ore Concentrates. J. Iron Steel Res. Int. 2016, 23, 661–668. [CrossRef]
16. Agrawal, S.; Dhawan, N. Microwave Carbothermic Reduction of Low-Grade Iron Ore. Met. Mater. Trans. A 2020, 51, 1576–1586.
[CrossRef]
17. Donskoi, E.; Collings, A.; Poliakov, A.; Bruckard, W. Utilisation of ultrasonic treatment for upgrading of hematitic/goethitic iron
ore fines. Int. J. Miner. Process. 2012, 114–117, 80–92. [CrossRef]
18. Filippov, L.; Silva, K.; Piçarra, A.; Lima, N.; Santos, I.; Bicalho, L.; Filippova, I.; Peres, A. Iron Ore Slimes Flotation Tests Using
Column and Amidoamine Collector without Depressant. Minerals 2021, 11, 699. [CrossRef]
19. Silva, K.; Filippov, L.O.; Piçarra, A.; Flilippova, I.V.; Lima, N.; Skliar, A.; Faustino, L.; Filho, L.L. New perspectives in iron ore flotation:
Use of collector reagents without depressants in reverse cationic flotation of quartz. Miner. Eng. 2021, 170, 107004. [CrossRef]
20. Matiolo, E.; Couto, H.J.B.; Lima, N.; Silva, K.; de Freitas, A.S. Improving recovery of iron using column flotation of iron ore slimes.
Miner. Eng. 2020, 158, 106608. [CrossRef]
21. Lima, N.P.; Silva, K.; Souza, T.; Filippov, L. The Characteristics of Iron Ore Slimes and Their Influence on The Flotation Process.
Minerals 2020, 10, 675. [CrossRef]
22. Panda, L.; Biswal, S.K.; Venugopal, R.; Mandre, N.R. Recovery of Ultra-Fine Iron Ore from Iron Ore Tailings. Trans. Indian Inst.
Met. 2017, 71, 463–468. [CrossRef]
23. Yin, W.; Tang, Y. Interactive effect of minerals on complex ore flotation: A brief review. Int. J. Miner. Metall. Mater. 2020, 27,
571–583. [CrossRef]
24. Dubey, A.; Patra, A.S.; Sarkar, A.N.; Basu, A.; Tripathy, S.K.; Mukherjee, A.; Bhatnagar, A. Synthesis of a copolymeric system and
its flocculation performance for iron ore tailings. Miner. Eng. 2021, 165, 106848. [CrossRef]
25. Li, M.; Xiang, Y.; Chen, T.; Gao, X.; Liu, Q. Separation of ultra-fine hematite and quartz particles using asynchronous flocculation
flotation. Miner. Eng. 2021, 164, 106817. [CrossRef]
26. Roy, S.; Nayak, D.; Rath, S.S. A review on the enrichment of iron values of low-grade Iron ore resources using reduction
roasting-magnetic separation. Powder Technol. 2020, 367, 796–808. [CrossRef]
27. Yu, J.; Han, Y.; Li, Y.; Gao, P. Recent Advances in Magnetization Roasting of Refractory Iron Ores: A Technological Review in the
Past Decade. Miner. Process. Extr. Met. Rev. 2019, 41, 349–359. [CrossRef]
28. Nanda, D.; Mandre, N.R. Studies on Characterization and Beneficiation of Typical Low-Grade Goethitic Iron Ore Jharkhand,
India. Trans. Indian Inst. Met. 2018, 71, 2985–2992. [CrossRef]
29. Fu, Y.-F.; Yin, W.-Z.; Yang, B.; Li, C.; Zhu, Z.-L.; Li, D. Effect of sodium alginate on reverse flotation of hematite and its mechanism.
Int. J. Miner. Met. Mater. 2018, 25, 1113–1122. [CrossRef]
Minerals 2022, 12, 260 13 of 13

30. Man, Y.; Feng, J.-X. Effect of iron ore-coal pellets during reduction with hydrogen and carbon monoxide. Powder Technol. 2016,
301, 1213–1217. [CrossRef]
31. Gao, P.; Li, G.-F.; Han, Y.-X.; Sun, Y.-S. Reaction Behavior of Phosphorus in Coal-Based Reduction of an Oolitic Hematite Ore and
Pre-Dephosphorization of Reduced Iron. Metals 2016, 6, 82. [CrossRef]
32. Li, G.; Liu, M.; Rao, M.; Jiang, T.; Zhuang, J.; Zhang, Y. Stepwise extraction of valuable components from red mud based on
reductive roasting with sodium salts. J. Hazard. Mater. 2014, 280, 774–780. [CrossRef] [PubMed]
33. Faris, N.; Tardio, J.; Ram, R.; Bhargava, S.; Pownceby, M.I. Investigation into coal-based magnetizing roasting of an iron-rich rare
earth ore and the associated mineralogical transformations. Miner. Eng. 2017, 114, 37–49. [CrossRef]
34. Sahu, S.N.; Baskey, P.K.; Barma, S.D.; Sahoo, S.; Meikap, B.; Biswal, S.K. Pelletization of synthesized magnetite concentrate
obtained by magnetization roasting of Indian low-grade BHQ iron ore. Powder Technol. 2020, 374, 190–200. [CrossRef]
35. Rath, S.S.; Rao, D.S.; Tripathy, A.; Biswal, S.K. Biomass briquette as an alternative reductant for low grade iron ore resources.
Biomass Bioenergy 2018, 108, 447–454. [CrossRef]
36. Yuan, S.; Liu, X.; Gao, P.; Han, Y. A semi-industrial experiment of suspension magnetization roasting technology for separation of
iron minerals from red mud. J. Hazard. Mater. 2020, 394, 122579. [CrossRef]
37. Li, Y.; Zhang, Q.; Yuan, S.; Yin, H. High-efficiency extraction of iron from early iron tailings via the suspension roasting-magnetic
separation. Powder Technol. 2021, 379, 466–477. [CrossRef]
38. Liu, X.; Gao, P.; Yuan, S.; Lv, Y.; Han, Y. Clean utilization of high-iron red mud by suspension magnetization roasting. Miner. Eng.
2020, 157, 106553. [CrossRef]
39. Yuan, S.; Zhou, W.; Han, Y.; Li, Y. Efficient enrichment of iron concentrate from iron tailings via suspension magnetization roasting
and magnetic separation. J. Mater. Cycles Waste Manag. 2020, 22, 1152–1162. [CrossRef]