The Essential Mineralogy of Raw Materials Used for Mineral Carbonation

Geological and mineralogical characterization of rocks plays an important role in the success of mineral carbonation. Therefore, closer mineralogical characterization has been on focus in this study with the aim to develop “The ÅA Route” carbonation method. By specifying the essential mineralogical characteristics of the raw material, the mineralization process can be fully utilized. In “The ÅA Route” carbonation process, Mg(OH)₂ is extracted from the ground ultramafic material and reacted with CO₂ in an exothermic reaction forming stable magnesite, MgCO₃. In general, ultramafic rocks are stated as promising raw material for mineral carbonation. However, mineralogical characteristics like the crystal water- and the Mg-content in the minerals, the crystal structure of the minerals as well as the composition of the parental rock and its grade of metamorphism may have a great influence to the outcome. Some characteristics, for example the Fe-content, were not as negative factors as anticipated. As the focus is the exploitation of mine waste as a raw material for mineral carbonation, it was noticed that the waste stones from particular mines are a possible source material, while chemically induced tailings caused hazardous results in the laboratory.