THE POTENTIAL OF THE AEGEAN PLACERS FOR PRECIOUS METALS, HEAVY MINERALS AND INDUSTRIAL RAW MATERIALS

4th International Scientific Conference - SGEM2004, www.sgem.org, SGEM2004 Conference Proceedings/ ISBN: 954-918181-2, June 14-18, 2004, 37- 46pp

ABSTRACT

In this study, the geological features of the placers in the Aegean region of Turkey
and possible processing options for the recovery of precious metals and industrial raw
materials were examined. Industrial raw materials present in the placers and their
potential for industrial uses were reviewed. A conceptual flow sheet for the
production of a bulk concentrates to recover rutile, ilmenite, zircon, hematite,
limonite, magnetite, cassiterite and gold contained in the placers concentrate was
proposed. Quartz crystals, clay minerals as tailings from the washing circuit, and
aggregate as the tailings of plant could be even used as raw materials in the concrete
industry and brick manufacturing. All the constituents of the placers could well
provide economic return with no “tailings”.