Robot for extracting iron from Taklamakan Desert sand

Researchers from Tarim University have presented a tracked robot capable of extracting iron directly from the sand of the Taklamakan Desert. The device operates on the principle of dry magnetic separation, which is critical for arid regions.

How the machine works

The extraction process includes several stages of sand processing:

• Rotating scoops scoop up sand and feed it into the separator.
• Permanent neodymium magnets based on iron and boron are used for separation.
• Magnetic particles stick to the drum and fall into a chute, while the remaining material returns to the environment.

The system operates without water, making it effective for use in desert conditions.

Test results

Data published in the journal Metal Mine shows the following efficiency indicators:

1. The magnetic fraction accounted for 0.46% of the total volume of processed sand.
2. Iron content in the resulting fraction reached 28%.

The resulting product is a concentrate that requires further processing to extract pure metal.

The technology is at the stage of a research prototype. Details regarding equipment dimensions, its productivity, and mining costs are not disclosed.