Institute of Geology of Karelian Research Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS) (Russia):

Sadovnichiy R. V., postgraduate, romanpost1@rambler.ru
Rozhkova N. N., Doctor of Chemistry, Senior Researcher, Head of Laboratory, rozhkova@krc.karelia.ru

ITMO University (Russia):

Gorbunova E. V., Ph. D. in Engineering Sciences, Senior Researcher, gorbunova@grv.ifmo.ru
Chertov А. N., Ph. D. in Engineering Sciences, Senior Researcher, a.n.chertov@mail.ru

A possibility of the Maksovskaya reserve (the Zazhoginskoye deposit) schungite rock photometric sorting was studied for the first time. It is shown that the Maksovskaya reserve large variations in schungite rock structure are related to development of quartz and sulfide outcrops of various morphology and size in them. Schungite rock specimens of veinlet and breccia texture of different sizes were studied. Three main mineral components differing in composition, structure and possessing contrast chromatic characteristics were distinguished in the studied rocks: homogeneous schungite rock, quartz and sulfides. Possible application of photometric sorting for schungite rock beneficiation was analyzed by means of a previously developed special optoelectronic system. The specimens surface images were obtained and analyzed in the course of the studies. As a result of image processing, relative quartz and sulfides area values were determined for each specimen. It was established, that by means of photometric sorting, white quartz is effectively distinguished on schungite rock specimens as thick veins, thin veinlets and small inclusions, likewise large inclusions and veinlets of sulfides. Schungite rock specimens surface areas containing small accumulations of sulfides are distinguished by a lighter shade, if compared with homogeneous schungite rock, and also may be separated by means of photometric sorting. Schungite breccia black quartz cement areas are also well distinguished. The obtained positive results may serve as a basis for a more detailed study of schungite rocks photometric sorting processes with a view to increase the quality of produced high-carbon schungite raw material.

The work was performed with the partial state financial aid from the leading universities of the Russian Federation (the Government Order 2014/190) and the FSBI «Fund for the Promotion of the Development of Small Forms of Enterprises in the Scientific and Technical Sphere» (Project No. 251 GU1/2013).

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