HEALTH EFFECTS OF LITHIUM (SPODUMENE) CONCENTRATION BY FROTH FLOTATION: A CASE STUDY OF UDAWA LITHIUM PEGMATITE, KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The rapid expansion of renewable energy technologies, electric vehicles, and large-scale energy storage systems has significantly increased global demand for lithium resources. Spodumene-bearing pegmatites represent one of the most important hard-rock lithium sources; however, their relatively low lithium content requires effective beneficiation before commercial utilization. This study investigates the metallurgical performance and occupational health implications associated with the concentration of spodumene from the Udawa lithium pegmatite deposit located in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Representative run-of-mine ore samples were subjected to crushing, grinding, and froth flotation processing. The feed material contained an average lithium oxide (Li₂O) grade of 1.12 wt.%. Following flotation concentration, a spodumene concentrate grading 4.35 wt.% Li₂O was obtained with an overall lithium recovery of 78.6%. The results demonstrate that froth flotation provides an effective upgrading route for the beneficiation of Nigerian spodumene resources. In addition to metallurgical evaluation, occupational health risks associated with lithium processing were assessed through airborne dust monitoring and evaluation of reagent handling practices within the processing circuit. Measured respirable dust concentrations ranged from 0.18 to 0.32 mg/m³, with the highest values recorded in the crushing and grinding sections due to increased mineral liberation and particle generation. Although observed reagent exposure conditions were within acceptable occupational limits under controlled laboratory conditions, prolonged exposure to mineral dust remains a potential respiratory health concern. The study highlights that successful lithium beneficiation should not only focus on recovery efficiency but also incorporate occupational safety strategies. Effective dust suppression, improved ventilation, personal protective equipment, and routine worker health surveillance are recommended to support safe and sustainable lithium processing operations in Nigeria.