Departmetn of Mineral Processing and Technogenic Raw Materials, National University of Science and Technology “MISiS”, Moscow, Russia:

B. E. Goryachev, Professor

Naing Linoo, Post-Graduate Student

A. A. Nikolaev, Associate Professor1, e-mail: nikolaevopr@misis.ru

Yu. N. Polyakova, Holder of a Master's Degree

This paper is concerned with flotation of different particle size fractions of copper activated pyrite and their response to changes in type of reagents (zinc sulfate, iron sulfate) and dosage. Potassium butyl xanthate and sodium dibutyl dithiophosphate were used as mineral collectors for pyrite flotation. Pyrite sample was obtained from sulfide copper-zinc mineral deposit of Urals region, with following crushing, grinding and sieving. Flotation of fine (–44+0 μm), medium (–74+44 μm) and coarse (–100+74 μm) pyrite fractions was explored under alkaline conditions. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of zinc sulfate and iron sulfate dosages on flotation of activated pyrite fractions. Influence of copper sulfate activation on pyrite flotation by sodium dibutyl dithiophosphate was lesser than influence, caused by potassium butyl xanthate. Therefore, sodium dibutyl dithiophosphate is recommended as a collector at pH, equal to 10 and 12 for minimization of pyrite activation mechanisms and enhancing of flotation selectivity. Meanwhile, potassium butyl xanthate can be used as a collector at pH = 8 in bulk flotation circuits. Results of experiments showed that higher dosages of copper sulfate activated pyrite flotation. Low dosages of copper sulfate resulted in depression of fine and medium pyrite fractions. In certain cases, influence of zinc sulfate on pyrite flotation could be different. Pyrite can be either depressed or slightly activated by zinc sulfate depending on the type of collector. The latter can be used in differential flotation circuits for achievement of best selectivity. Influence of iron sulfate addition and dosage on the flotation of pyrite size fractions was examined. Pyrite was depressed by low dosages of iron sulfate, while high dosages in some cases resulted in pyrite activation, which was observed for both potassium butyl xanthate and sodium dibutyl dithiophosphate. As a matter of iron removal of zinc concentrates, iron sulfate can be recommended as a depressant at dosages of more than 400 g/t and potassium butyl xanthate as a collector.

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