Abstract: A binder composition and method for its use to bind metal ores in a pelletizing process is disclosed. The composition includes the use of superabsorbent cross-linked polymers alone or in combination with at least one of the materials chosen from linear water-soluble vinyl addition polymers and polysaccharides.

Abstract: Particulate material such as iron ore is agglomerated into pellets or other agglomerates by being homogeneously mixed in the presence of moisture with a binder followed by agglomeration of the moist mixture, and the binder comprises a water soluble anionic polymer having intrinsic viscosity of from about 2 to about 7 dl/g and containing 5 to about 20% by weight carboxylic monomer groups (measured as sodium salt). The preferred polymer of is the copolymer of acrylamide and 5 to 20%, preferably 5 to 15%, sodium acrylate. The binder may also comprise bentonite.

Abstract: Iron ore particles or other water insoluble non-swellable particulate material is converted into pellets or other agglomerates by mixing with substantially dry binder in the presence of moisture and is then bonded into agglomerates. The binder comprises substantially dry bentonite and particulate polymeric material, and the bentonite is blended with the insoluble particulate material and moisture before addition of the polymeric material.

Abstract: Agglomerating agent and method for use in heap leaching of mineral bearing ores. A moderate to high molecular weight anionic polymer either alone or in combination with cement provides a highly effective agglomerating agent. The anionic polymer is preferably a copolymer of acrylamide and acrylic acid. The polymer preferably has a molecular weight of from about 1 to 8 million or higher.

Abstract: Agglomerating agent and method for use in heap leaching of mineral bearing ores. A moderate to high molecular weight anionic polymer either alone or in combination with cement provides a highly effective agglomerating agent. The anionic polymer is preferably a copolymer of acrylamide and acrylic acid. The polymer preferably has a molecular weight of from about 1 to 8 million or higher.

Abstract: Particulate metal ore is pellitized by use of a novel polymeric binder that comprises aggregates of polymer particles and that have a size mainly above 100 .mu.m and the aggregates are disintegrated during the process.

Abstract: A binder for pelletizing particulate mineral material. The binder including about 50-99.5% modified native starch, and about 0.5-50% of water-dispersible polymer material selected from the group consisting of water-dispersible nature gums, water-dispersible pectins, water-dispersible starch derivatives, water-dispersible cellulose derivatives, water-dispersible vinyl polymers, water-dispersible acrylic polymers and mixtures thereof. An iron ore concentrate is also disclosed as are mineral ore and iron ore pellets. In addition, methods of binding particulate mineral material and of making mineral ore pellets are also disclosed.