Core Insights - The article highlights the significant advancements in iron ore processing technology led by Chen Wen, a chief scientist at China Minmetals Corporation and Changsha Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, which have transformed previously unutilized iron ore resources into economically viable materials [1][2]. Group 1: Technological Innovations - Chen Wen has developed a core process system that includes "early discarding and early collection, precise grading, and selective re-grinding," which has improved the average iron concentrate grade in China from 62% to over 67.5% and reduced silica content from 8% to around 4% [2]. - The new coal-based rotary kiln technology has increased the utilization rate of complex iron ore resources by 40% to 50% and reduced energy consumption by 30% [3]. - A novel technology for removing zinc and sulfur impurities from iron concentrates has achieved over 90% removal efficiency, revitalizing approximately 2 billion tons of previously discarded "dormant" ore resources globally [4]. Group 2: Broader Resource Recovery Efforts - Chen Wen's team is also focusing on the efficient recovery of critical minerals such as copper, lead, zinc, and rare earth elements, which are essential for national resource security [5]. - The introduction of a new combination collector, CYR-1, has improved the grade of rare earth concentrates to 57%, with recovery rates increasing by 7% and 9.59% respectively, while also lowering flotation temperatures by 25 degrees Celsius [5][7]. Group 3: Contributions to Local and National Development - Chen Wen has been actively involved in policy-making and research initiatives aimed at enhancing mineral resource utilization and addressing environmental challenges in mining [9][10]. - The research conducted by Chen Wen and her team has positioned Hunan province as a potential leader in the global mining industry, integrating green innovation into mining practices and promoting sustainable development [9][10].