Gangue
| Also Known As | Waste rock, gangue mineral, ore waste, tailings mineral |
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What is Gangue?
Gangue is the commercially worthless material that surrounds, or is closely mixed with, a wanted mineral in an ore deposit. It must be separated from the ore mineral during mining and processing. Common gangue minerals include quartz, calcite, feldspar, and pyrite when iron is not the target metal. The separation of gangue from ore is a primary goal of mineral processing.
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Gangue is the commercially worthless material that surrounds, or is closely mixed with, a wanted mineral in an ore deposit. It must be separated from the ore mineral during mining and processing. Common gangue minerals include quartz, calcite, feldspar, and pyrite when iron is not the target metal. The separation of gangue from ore is a primary goal of mineral processing.
Gangue minerals separated by: flotation, gravity separation, magnetic separation, leaching. Waste gangue may be used as aggregate, fill material, or road base. Some gangue minerals (calcite, feldspar) have independent commercial value. Tailings management is critical environmental challenge.
Gangue disposal creates large waste rock and tailings piles. Fine gangue particles (tailings) can cause dust hazards and acid mine drainage. Some gangue may contain heavy metals requiring careful management. Tailings dams failure risk requires engineering controls.