Development of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy for mining
Description
During mining production, the chemical and mineralogical characterization of mineralized samples requires multiple steps, resulting in delays generally caused by the absence of appropriate in situ methods and the consequent need to ship samples to an analytical laboratory. Recent advances in Laser Plasma Spectroscopy (LIBS) show great potential to support the efforts of the mining industry.
Topic I: Increasing future demand for critical and strategic minerals (CSMs) results from the rapid emergence of technology sectors linked to renewable energies. Among SCMs, rare earths are essential for the development of green technologies, and in particular for the manufacture of permanent magnets. The aim of this project is to optimize the characterization and use of this mineral resource, and thus contribute to improving the recovery rate during the processing of rare earth ores. Industrial partners: Torngat Metals, COREM.
Topic II: Improving ore processing requires the development of new technologies. Mineralogical and chemical quantification is a key step prior to concentrate production from gold ore. This project involves the application of LIBS technology to the analysis of coarse fractions (greater than 150 µm) from the grinding and flotation circuits of the Goldex mine ore processing plant, to identify pyrite release and thus improve flotation recovery and the grinding energy required for minimum release. Industrial partners: Agnico Eagle Mines, Elemission inc.
The proposed research topics aim to improve ore processing through the development of this new ultra-fast and low-cost instrumental analysis method. Ore analysis will be carried out directly by the student in Université Laval laboratories, using mineralogical and chemical measurements. Physico-chemical characterizations using polarizing light microscopy, electron microprobe, micro-XRF analyzer, portable XRF analyzer and quantitative XRD will be carried out at the university laboratory, supporting the development of this innovative method.
Research Field
- Earth Sciences
- Mineral Resources
- Geometallurgy
- Mineralogy
- Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS)
- Multivariate statistical methods
Research Supervisor
Marc Constantin
Research Environment
Centre E4M - Centre de recherche sur la géologie et l'ingénierie des ressources minérales
We are looking for 2 excellent candidates (preferably Ph.D.s) for 2 thesis topics to be carried out in partnership with industrial and public partners: Agnico Eagle Mines, Torngat Metals, Elemission Inc. and COREM.
Research will be carried out mainly at Université Laval, but some work will be done in the mining regions.
Web Site
Financial Aid Available by Program of Study
Doctorate in Earth Science
Program descriptionFinancial Aid Available*
Financial Aid Related to Research Project
Information unavailable
Program-Specific Financial Aid
Graduate Studies Awards
| Milestone |
Amount |
Progression scholarship
|
7 x $500 |
Doctoral exam or seminar presentation
|
$750 |
Doctoral exam, seminar or conference
|
$1,000 |
Publication
|
$750 |
Communication
|
$1,000 |
First submission of dissertation
|
$1,000* |
| Total |
$8,500 |
*A $500 bonus will be added to the graduation scholarship if the initial submission is made before the semester preceding the final qualifying semester.
Université Laval: Student Financial Aid
Supplemental Tuition Fee Exemption Scholarship Program: Entitles international students to pay Canadian student tuition fees, for overall savings of around $40,000.
* Amounts shown represent maximum financial aid available. Certain conditions apply. Subject to change without prior notice. For further information, contact sponsoring organizations directly. Master's Degree in Earth Science with thesis
Program descriptionFinancial Aid Available*
Financial Aid Related to Research Project
Information unavailable
Program-Specific Financial Aid
Graduate Studies Awards
| Milestone |
Amount |
Evaluated activity
|
$650 |
| Achievement scholarship |
$1,000 |
| Total |
$1,650 |
Université Laval: Student Financial Aid
* Amounts shown represent maximum financial aid available. Certain conditions apply. Subject to change without prior notice. For further information, contact sponsoring organizations directly.
Desired Profile
- Chemistry
- Geology
- Mineral, Metallurgical, and Materials Engineering
- Geological Engineering
Required Documentation
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitæ
- Student transcript
- Contact details of three referees
The selection process will begin as applications are received, and will continue until successful candidates have been identified.
Application Deadline
October 11, 2024
Find Out More
Marc Constantin
Professeur
Département de géologie et de génie géologique
marc.constantin@ggl.ulaval.ca