Investigation of pullulan polysaccharide as a sphalerite depressant for chalcopyrite separation: Flotation behavior and interfacial adsorption mechanism
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
The remarkable differences in the metallurgical processes of copper and zinc require their host minerals to be separated as far as possible during beneficiation. For chalcopyrite and sphalerite, the primary host minerals of copper and zinc, their green and efficient separation in the beneficiation stage remains a great challenge. This work is the first to employ environmentally friendly pullulan polysaccharide (PP) as a sphalerite depressant to assist in the concentration of chalcopyrite. Flotation experiments have revealed that PP possesses a selective depression action on sphalerite without having a large influence on the recovery of chalcopyrite. Characterization analysis has revealed that PP can be adsorbed onto chalcopyrite and sphalerite surfaces, but with a different response to subsequent sorption collectors. PP adsorbs to the Zn atoms on sphalerite surfaces via its O atoms in the C−O−H group and thus prevents the adsorption of sodium butyl xanthate (BX). The Fe sites on the chalcopyrite surface can adsorb PP, but this process does not affect the BX adsorption as the Cu sites remain exposed. Hence, PP can enhance the hydrophilicity of sphalerite without interfering with the hydrophobicity of chalcopyrite, resulting in a desirable separation effect. Overall, this work offers a promising scheme for the concentration of chalcopyrite from sphalerite during beneficiation, thereby contributing to the efficient exploitation of copper and zinc resources.
期刊介绍:
The aim of Advanced Powder Technology is to meet the demand for an international journal that integrates all aspects of science and technology research on powder and particulate materials. The journal fulfills this purpose by publishing original research papers, rapid communications, reviews, and translated articles by prominent researchers worldwide.
The editorial work of Advanced Powder Technology, which was founded as the International Journal of the Society of Powder Technology, Japan, is now shared by distinguished board members, who operate in a unique framework designed to respond to the increasing global demand for articles on not only powder and particles, but also on various materials produced from them.
Advanced Powder Technology covers various areas, but a discussion of powder and particles is required in articles. Topics include: Production of powder and particulate materials in gases and liquids(nanoparticles, fine ceramics, pharmaceuticals, novel functional materials, etc.); Aerosol and colloidal processing; Powder and particle characterization; Dynamics and phenomena; Calculation and simulation (CFD, DEM, Monte Carlo method, population balance, etc.); Measurement and control of powder processes; Particle modification; Comminution; Powder handling and operations (storage, transport, granulation, separation, fluidization, etc.)