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CuFeS2 / MoS2 Mineral Concentrate
Specimen Preparation (Class 11 Procedures)
Metallographic Class 11 sample preparation  

The microstructural analysis of mining concentrates or tailings is useful in determining if the important minerals have been liberated from the gang material through grinding. In this example, a concentrate of chalcopyrite and molybdenite are to be separated by a secondary floatation process. For this to be effective the chalcopyrite and the molybdenite minerals need to be separated. If they are not, an additional or an extended grinding operation may be required. Proper microstructural preparation of these materials must maintain the structure of the ore concentrate. In other words, microstructural grinding and polishing must not liberate any minerals that are locked together. This is accomplished by first mounting the mineral in a castable mounting compound such as epoxy. Initial grinding with a 320 grit or finer SiC paper is required to prevent pulling out the mineral particles, especially the smaller particles. Rough polishing is accomplished on low napped polishing cloths using diamond, with final polishing for a very short time on a high napped cloth using an alumina suspension.

SECTIONING
Not required

MOUNTING
Castable Mounting with Epoxy or Acrylic resins

POLISHING
Abrasive/surface Lubricant Force/ sample Speed
(Head/base)
Time Individual
Force mode
Central Force
mode
240 grit SiC paper*
Water 5 lbs 100/100 rpm Planar
  Metallographic central polishing force
360 grit SiC paper
600 grit SiC paper
Water 5 lbs 100/100 rpm 1 min
1 min
Metallographic individual polishing force Metallographic central polishing force
6 um DIAMAT diamond
on TEXPAN polishing pad
DIALUBE Purple
Extender
10 lbs 100/100 rpm 5 min Metallographic individual polishing force Metallographic central polishing force
1 um DIAMAT diamond
on GOLDPAD or ATLANTIS
polishing pad
DIALUBE Purple
Extender
10 lbs 100/100 rpm 5 min Metallographic individual polishing force Metallographic central polishing force
SIAMAT Colloidal silca
on TEXPAN polishing pad
  10 lbs 100/100 rpm 5 min Metallographic individual polishing force Metallographic central polishing force

*Required for central polishing force. Click here for more information on central vs. individual polishing force polishing.

Metallographic micrograph of CuFeS2 and MoS2 minerals
CuFeS2/MoS2 Mineral. Note that the two minerals have
not been completely liberated from each other.
CuFeS2-Mo
CuFeS2/MoS2 Mineral. Note the separation of the two
minerals.

ETCHING

Common Etchants
PACE Technologies Recommended Etchants

PACE Technologies Etchant Database

CAUTION:Safety is very important when etching. Be sure to wear the appropriate protective clothing and observe all WARNINGS on chemical manufacuters SDS (Safety Data Sheets). Also review the COMMENTS and CONDITIONS Section for each etchant.


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