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Published on: May 3, 2019
Thorium in mineral products
D E Collier1, S A Brown, N Blagojevic
1Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Menai, NSW. dxc@ansto.gov.au
Radiation Protection Dosimetry
|February 15, 2002
Summary
Radioactivity in thorium-bearing ores poses challenges for mineral processing. ANSTO
Area of Science:
- Nuclear Science and Technology
- Mineral Processing
- Radiochemistry
Background:
- Thorium is present in low concentrations in many ores, leading to radioactivity in processed mineral products.
- Industries seek to remove radioactivity to facilitate the trade and use of mineral products without licensing.
- Controlling thorium levels requires optimized process steps to meet product specifications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate methods for controlling thorium in mineral products.
- To apply a microprobe technique for radioactivity siting in zircon and ilmenite.
- To address challenges in measuring thorium concentrations in rare earth products.
Main Methods:
- Application of a microprobe technique for radioactivity analysis.
- Process development and optimization for thorium removal.
- Measurement of thorium concentrations in solid rare earth products.
Main Results:
- The study details the application of a microprobe technique for locating radioactivity within zircon and ilmenite.
- Challenges were encountered in accurately measuring thorium concentrations in solid rare earth products.
- ANSTO has developed R&D programs targeting thorium-bearing mineral treatment.
Conclusions:
- Effective control of thorium in mineral products is crucial for industrial applications and trade.
- Microprobe techniques are valuable for understanding radioactivity distribution in minerals.
- Further research is needed to overcome measurement challenges in rare earth products.
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