Sensor-based sorting technology to optimise the spodumene concentration
Published by Will Owen,
Editor
Global Mining Review,
Companhia Brasileira de Lítio (CBL) is a pioneer in underground mining of lithium-bearing pegmatite, processing lithium concentrate, and producing high-purity lithium chemical compounds. With over 35 years of experience, the company operates vertically from spodumene mining in Araçuaí, Jequitinhonha Valley (MG) – recently recognised as Brazil’s Lithium Valley – to chemical conversion at its industrial plant in Divisa Alegre (MG). To address dilution challenges, CBL implemented STEINERT’s sensor-based sorting (SBS) technology.
CBL supplies domestic and international markets with high-purity lithium for battery, ceramic, glass, pharmaceutical, and lubricant industries. Committed to innovation and sustainability, the company continuously invests in technology and process improvement, positioning itself among Latin America’s leading lithium producers. The Jequitinhonha Valley has become a hub for spodumene-bearing pegmatite exploration, with CBL as a pioneer and the only Brazilian company converting concentrate into lithium carbonate and hydroxide in the country.
Challenge: Reducing dilution to optimise spodumene concentration
Since operations began, ore dilution caused by schist – the host rock of pegmatite bodies – has been one of CBL’s main challenges. Dilution directly affects spodumene recovery and concentrate quality, impacting productivity and profitability. Seeking to increase recovery and efficiency, CBL invested in SBS technology, integrating it into the existing processing plant to reduce waste and enhance ore concentration.
Solution: Implementing STEINERT’s sorting technology
CBL installed STEINERT KSS | CLI units equipped with X-ray transmission (XRT) and colour sensors to separate spodumene from waste rock based on material composition. The equipment was configured for continuous operation in the ore beneficiation circuit. STEINERT’s SBS identifies and separates particles using atomic density and colour, enabling removal of barren rocks before milling and flotation. This pre-concentration increases feed grade, reduces energy use, and optimises downstream processing.
The partnership with STEINERT was based on joint studies, test work, and onsite adjustments to ensure performance and adaptability to CBL’s ore. Implementation included customised calibration to account for geological variations, ensuring stable production and consistent concentrate quality.
Results: Increased efficiency and sustainability
With STEINERT’s SBS technology, CBL achieved a significant reduction in schist dilution and improved spodumene recovery rates. Process optimisation lowered reagent and water consumption, aligning with the company’s sustainability goals. Energy efficiency and reduced tailings generation contributed to lower operational costs and environmental impact. The integration of advanced sorting also improved plant throughput and concentrate quality, strengthening CBL’s competitiveness in the global lithium market.
A sustainable future for Brazilian lithium
CBL continues to invest in process modernisation and innovation to reinforce its leadership in the lithium sector. The partnership with STEINERT demonstrates how SBS can transform traditional beneficiation into a more efficient, environmentally responsible process. Operating in Brazil’s Lithium Valley, CBL reaffirms its pioneering role in developing sustainable technologies for critical mineral production.
Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/mining/03112025/sensor-based-sorting-technology-to-optimise-the-spodumene-concentration/