The precise characterization of the mineralogical composition of complex mineral resources is a major economic challenge for the mining industry, enabling the optimization of deposit management. This study focuses on the characterization of phosphorites from the Kotchari deposit (Burkina Faso). The methodology combines high-resolution X-ray diffraction (XRD) on ESRF (European Synchrotron Radiation Facility), quantitative Rietveld simulation, and Pair Distribution Function. The results demonstrate that phosphorites are composed of hydroxylapatite, francolite (carbonate-fluorapatite), quartz, and illite. The use of synchrotron radiation offers significantly higher data quality, with increased resolution, a very low noise level, and a very short acquisition time. It enables large series of samples that can be characterized rapidly. The accuracy of Rietveld simulations has been validated by a strong correlation with chemical compositions obtained by X-ray fluorescence (XRF), although minor elements such as iron and fluorine are slightly underestimated due to their distribution within existing mineral structures. It demonstrates that Rietveld simulation of synchrotron data allows for the reliable and rapid determination of the mineralogical composition of complex mineral resources. This method proves to be a powerful tool for ore quality control, acquisition of three-dimensional data, and decision support in large-scale mining operations.
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