Iron assay in mining concentrates is essential for trading purposes and quality control. Iron is a common element in mineral concentrates, and its accurate quantification is critical for determining the value of the concentrate. Several analytical methods are available for the determination of iron in mining concentrates, including titrimetric, gravimetric, spectrophotometric, and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) techniques. Each method has its advantages and limitations, and the selection of a particular technique depends on factors such as the working range, detection limit, precision, accuracy, and sample matrix. Accurate sample preparation is also crucial for obtaining reliable results in iron assays. Adequate sample size reduction, homogenization, and moisture control are necessary to ensure representative subsampling and to prevent oxidation and moisture loss during the analysis. The proper selection of an assay method and sample preparation procedure can help to ensure the accuracy and reliability of iron assay results in mining concentrates.

Two methods for iron assay in concentrates are applied in Xertek lab:

Titration with potassium dichromate: Working range from 1% to 100%.

Atomic absorption spectrophotometry: Working range from 0.01% to 20%.

The appropriate method and working range will depend on the specific concentration of iron in the concentrate and the desired level of precision and accuracy.