Lime products play an important role throughout the mining and mineral processing industry. From ore extraction and processing through to water treatment and environmental management, quicklime and hydrated lime are used across a wide range of mining applications. Their chemical properties make them valuable materials for helping support process efficiency, treatment performance and operational outcomes. 

Mining operations throughout Australia rely on lime products as part of their processing and treatment systems. Depending on the application, operators may use quicklime, hydrated lime or premium hydrated lime to meet specific operational requirements.  

Why is Lime Used in Mining?

Mining and mineral processing operations often require materials that can support chemical treatment processes, assist with pH control and contribute to efficient extraction and processing.

Quicklime and hydrated lime are commonly selected because of their versatility, availability and proven performance across a range of mining environments. 

Common uses include:

• Mineral processing
• pH adjustment
• Water treatment
• Wastewater treatment
• Environmental management
• Metallurgical processing
• Gold and silver recovery
• Copper processing
• Uranium extraction

Quicklime in Mining

Quicklime, also known as calcium oxide (CaO), is widely used in mining and mineral processing operations where high reactivity is required. Its chemical properties make it suitable for a range of treatment and processing applications. 

Quicklime is commonly used in:

• Mineral processing operations
• Metallurgical applications
• Process water treatment
• Industrial treatment systems
• Mining-related environmental management programs

The high calcium oxide content of quicklime makes it particularly valuable in applications where rapid chemical reaction and process performance are important. 

Hydrated Lime in Mining

Hydrated Lime is used across mining operations where treatment efficiency, water management and process flexibility are required. As a calcium hydroxide product, it is commonly used in treatment processes and mining support applications. 

Mining applications include:

• Process water treatment
• Wastewater treatment
• pH management
• Environmental treatment
• General mineral processing applications 

Its ease of handling and versatility make hydrated lime a commonly selected product across a wide range of mining environments. 

Lime in Metallurgical Processing

Lime products play an important role in a number of metallurgical applications. The industry profile brochure highlights the use of lime in steel production, non-ferrous metal production and mineral extraction processes. Lime is used in applications associated with copper beneficiation, alumina and magnesia production, uranium extraction and the recovery of precious metals such as gold and silver. 

These applications demonstrate the importance of lime products across both mining and downstream metal processing industries.

Water Treatment in Mining Operations

Water management is a critical part of modern mining operations. Lime products are commonly used in industrial water treatment systems where pH adjustment, clarification and treatment performance are important operational considerations. Industrial facilities and mining operations use lime in treatment processes associated with wastewater and process water management. 

Depending on project requirements, mining operators may use quicklime, hydrated lime or premium hydrated lime within their treatment systems. 

Environmental Applications

Mining operations are increasingly focused on environmental performance and regulatory compliance. Lime products are commonly used in environmental treatment processes and can assist in a range of industrial treatment applications. The industry profile brochure identifies environmental applications including wastewater treatment and treatment of various industrial process streams. 

Choosing the Right Lime Product for Mining

The most suitable lime product depends on the specific application.

The appropriate product should always be selected based on operational requirements, treatment objectives and project specifications. 

Related Products

Explore Boral's range of lime products for mining and industrial applications:

• Quicklime
• Hydrated Lime
• Premium Hydrated Lime
• Agricultural Lime