Kinetic Features of Lead Ion Activation of Sphalerite Flotation

The authors propose a model of activation of sphalerite flotation by lead ions using the mechanism of physisorption of a collecting agent. Flotation tests determined the recovery of zinc and the quality of the concentrate depending on the volume densities of lead and xanthate, the ratio of their mole concentrations and pH of the flotation system. The ratio of lead and xanthate mole concentrations of the increased sphalerite floatability, which is condition of casual activation of sphalerite, is found. The causes of suppression of sphalerite floatability at the increase in a certain concentration of the activating agent or xanthate are disclosed. On the basis of sphalerite floatability suppression, it is recommended how to enhance selectivity of separation of sulphides in the lead flotation circuit.