EDXRF Analysis of Pyrochlore Ore from an Albite–Riebeckite Granite in Nigeria

Abstract

Pyrochlore ore samples from an albite–riebeckite granite were separated with heavy liquids and analyzed by energy‐dispersive x‐ray fluorescence (EDXRF), using the emission–transmission (E–T) method of quantification. Ti, Mn, Fe, Zn, Y, Zr, Nb, Sn, Ta, W, Pb, Th, and U were evaluated in the ore. The multielement and reproducible nature of the technique is advantageous, as it makes it possible to simultaneously evaluate Nb, Sn, Ta, Th, and U, which are the elements of economic interest. The average concentrations of Nb, Ta, Th, and U are 16.22, 1.81, 1.85, and 2.24 wt%, respectively; this makes the ore of economic importance if the processing is workable economically.

Keywords:

• Energy dispersive x‐ray fluorescence
• Emission–transmission
• Pyrochlore ore
• Albite–riebeckite granite

Acknowledgments

The assistance of S. Okoh, G.N. Obasi, and M. Dabai of the Materials Science Section of the Centre for Energy Research and Training, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria in sample preparation is acknowledged.