The collectorless floatation and separatioon of sulphide minerals by Eh control
Date
1988
Authors
Hayes, R.A.
Ralston, J.
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Journal article
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International Journal of Mineral Processing, 1988; 23(1-2):55-84
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Abstract
The flotation of galena, chalcopyrite, and sphalerite has been studied singly and as mixtures in the absence of collector by E<inf>h</inf> control. It is shown that the collectorless floatability of each sulphide studied is directly linked to its ease of oxidation as well as to the stability of the hydrophobic surface state which is produced. The hydrophobic surface species may be elemental sulphur, determined by mass spectroscopy, or a sulphur-rich metal-deficient surface. The ease of collectorless flotation follows the order chalcopyrite>galena>sphalerite. Mixtures of galena and chalcopyrite, ground together, may be separated by E<inf>h</inf> control provided that they are ground in a reducing environment. Under such conditions, their floatability is enhanced compared with the response of the minerals studied singly. Grinding in an oxidizing environment reduces selectivity and floatability due to the formation of hydrophilic oxidation products on the surface. Implications for flotation practice are discussed. © 1988.
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Copyright 1988 Elsevier