Niobium (Nb)
Production of raw materials
The primary mineral from which niobium is obtained is known as pyrochlore. The world’s largest deposit is located in Araxa, Brazil and is owned by Companhia Brasileira de Metalurgia e
The primary mineral from which niobium is obtained is known as pyrochlore. The world’s largest deposit is located in Araxa, Brazil and is owned by Companhia Brasileira de Metalurgia e
Minerals containing Tantalum (Ta). All photos copyright T.I.C. 2019
In 2013/2014 Ulric Schwela, T.I.C.’s then Technical Officer, visited ASM mine sites in Burundi, DRC and Rwanda. These photographs show typical tantalite ASM processes, although in reality operations vary considerably.
The extraction and refining of tantalum, including its separation from niobium in various tantalum-containing mineral concentrates, is generally accomplished by treating the ores with a mixture of hydrofluoric and sulfuric
Extraction or production of tantalum raw materials is widespread, encompassing primary industrial mining, artisanal mining, as a secondary mineral, or as a by-product. Brazil is currently the major producer, with
Subscribe to the T.I.C. newsletter and receive the latest news, research, and industry updates straight to your inbox.
The Tantalum-Niobium International Study Center is committed to promoting innovation, collaboration, and sustainability across industries worldwide.