Liberation size plays a significant role to select a correct and successful concentration method for natural iron ores. This paper aims to evaluate the liberation size of two newly discovered iron ores, namely Zard Koh and Kulli Koh, existing in Chagai region of Pakistan. Zard Koh iron ore is mainly composed of maghemite along with the pyrite, chlorite, grossular and admontite as gangue minerals, whereas, Kulli Koh iron ore is comprised of hematite mostly with quartz, dravite and kaolinite as the gangue minerals. The representative samples of ores were pulverized and sieved to different size fractions. The liberation size of iron bearing minerals and gangues was investigated by analyzing the different size fractions of each ore using XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence), SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) attached with EDS (Energy Dispersive Spectroscope). The XRF results revealed that the most probable liberation size of Zard Koh and Kulli Koh ores is most likely existing at -75+45 and -150+106 m, respectively. In order to confirm this liberation size, further evidences were collected using SEM and EDS examinations. It is interesting to note that the results obtained from SEM and EDS were quite in agreement with XRF results.

Geochemistry of the late Cretaceous Pab Sandstone deposited at the Laki Range, Southern Indus basin, was carried out in order to acquire a better knowledge of the source rock and paleoclimate. The unit in the studied region comprise predominantly sandstone, with some mudstone. The major element geochemistry of Pab Sandstone suggests that the samples were composed of abundant SiO2, Al2O3, CaO, and Fe2O3. Other major oxides comprises less than 2 wt. %. Major element discriminatory diagrams additionally imply that Pab sediments originated from a granitic source. The idea that the Pab sediments were generated by a granitic source is further supported by the rich concentration of trace elements including Zr, La Th, Ba, and Sr, in contrast to V, Ni, Cr, Co, and their ratio. It is conceivable that the Pab Sandstone was formed by sediments from granitic rocks, as indicated by the La/Sc and Th/Co model, as well as the TiO2 and Zr plots. The measured Plagioclase Index of Alteration (PIA) values, which range from 59.94 to 89.44, and the Chemical Index of Alteration (CIA), which ranges from 61.12 to 83.75, indicate that the studied sediments experienced moderate to strong weathering under warm, humid climate conditions. Geochemical findings indicate that the Pab Sandstone sediments originated from the vast Indian Shield (Craton); probably from the Malani Igneous Suite in India and the Nagar Parkar Igneous Complex in Pakistan.

Limestone belonging to the Laki Formation is well exposed at Nooriabad, Jhampir, and Makli Hills. Representative samples of the Laki Formation limestone were collected from different locations such as Jamshoro, Bolhari, Makli Hills, and Nooriabad. The four crush plants i.e. Afridi Crush Plant and New Hazara Crush Plant (Makli, Thatta District), Shah Rahim Crush Plant and Bhatti Crush Plant (Nooriabad, Jamshoro District) were selected for sampling. The Petrographic investigation as per ASTM- C295-03 (1) was performed using standard thin sections. The megascopic and microscopic study results reflect no hindrance in using the studied limestone. For cement concrete, this limestone can be used for the low-strength concrete and aggregate base course and sub-base. Variation in lithology, stratification and non-homogeneity was observed, however, the aggregate from the New Hazara crush plant is found fractured in nature and therefore, its use as concrete material is not suggested. The studied limestone of all crushed plants does not show any potential for Alkali Silica Reaction (ASR) and Alkali Carbonate Reaction (ACR). Based on the present study, it is concluded that the studied limestone of the Laki Formation from the above-mentioned locations is suitable for construction purposes and industrial use. For cement concrete, this limestone can be used for the low strength concrete and pavement (sub-base & base coarse) as well as aggregate base course. In the stockpile of crushed aggregate on crusher plants, the chalky limestone was found to be less stable and less durable.