Multi-Technique Characterization of Lithium Ore Deposits from Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State, Nigeria: Emphasis on Lithium Quantification and Radiological Assessment of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33003/fjs-2026-1010-5446Keywords:
Lithium Ore, Flame Photometry, Gamma Spectrometry, Birnin Gwari, Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials, SpodumeneAbstract
The growing global demand for lithium, driven by the electric vehicle and renewable energy storage industries, has intensified exploration activities in Nigeria's pegmatite belts. This study presents a comprehensive multi-technique characterization of lithium ore samples from two mining sites (Udawa and Sintili) in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Lithium quantification was achieved using flame photometry, while radionuclide analysis was conducted using gamma spectrometry. Results from flame photometry revealed lithium concentrations of 1.17 wt% (11,700 ppm) and 1.34 wt% (13,400 ppm) for samples L23 and L24, respectively, indicating economically viable grades. Gamma spectrometric analysis showed activity concentrations ranging from 48.37–92.69 Bq/kg for K-40, 18.99–19.58 Bq/kg for Ra-226, and 39.68–50.51 Bq/kg for Th-232, all below internationally recommended exemption levels. The lithium grades compare favorably with global commercial thresholds (>0.5–1.0% Li₂O), while radionuclide concentrations pose no significant radiological hazard to workers or the environment. The study recommends targeted mining of higher-grade zones and implementation of routine dust monitoring during processing operations.
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