- Antonio Clareti Pereira*
- PhD in Chemical Engineering, Federal University of Minas Gerais – UFMG, Department of Chemical Engineering, Belo Horizonte – MG – Brazil
- DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17265013
Goethite
(α-FeOOH) is one of the most common iron oxyhydroxides found in lateritic iron
ores, bauxite residues, and sludges from hydrometallurgical processes. It
presents significant challenges due to its high structural water content, fine
particle size, and low thermal stability, which affect mineral processing,
filtration, and metallurgical operations. Converting goethite into hematite
(α-Fe₂O₃) or other dehydrated iron oxides is crucial for enhancing material
handling, improving process efficiency, and facilitating the production of
high-value products, such as iron ore pellets and pigments. This review
provides a comprehensive analysis of the mechanisms, thermodynamics, and
kinetics that govern the dehydration of goethite through thermal,
hydrometallurgical, and hybrid methods. It highlights recent advances
(2020–2025) in process technologies, such as low-carbon heating techniques,
controlled precipitation, and integrated circular economy strategies for
residue valorization. Characterization methods, such as X-ray diffraction
(XRD), Mössbauer spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), are
examined for their roles in monitoring phase transformations. The review also
critically assesses industrial applications, process optimization strategies,
and future perspectives, emphasizing the importance of goethite transformation
for sustainable iron production and waste management.
