Authors : G.O. Onyedika and P.C. Njoku
Abstract: The Ishiagu galena (PbS)-sphalerite (ZnS) ore deposit was found to contain PbS and ZnS in commercial quantities. The differential flotation of the lead-zinc complex ore to separate the mineral components using potassium Ethylxanthate (KEX) prepared from locally available caustic potash was studied. Combinations of C3 and C5 alcohols as frother was used. The effect of CuSO4.5H2O as an activator of sphalerite was studied at different activation times and at different pH values. Sphalerite was satisfactorily recovered using the activator. Maximum recovery of sphalerite was achieved, thereby establishing the zero-point-of-charge of sphalerite at this hydrogen ion concentration. Results obtained showed that high recovery of PbS (about 87%) was achieved at activation time of 20 min. Over 70% increase in the recovery of ZnS with copper sulphate pentahydrate as activator and prepared potassium ethylxanthate as collector was achieved. These results proves high collector ability of the local potassium ethylxanthate.
G.O. Onyedika and P.C. Njoku , 2007. Differential Flotation of Nigeria’s Galena-Sphalerite Ore Using Xanthate Collector from Locally Sourced Caustic Potash . Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, 2: 745-749.