Skip to main content
Conference Proceedings

Green Processing 2002 HC

Conference Proceedings

Green Processing 2002 HC

PDF Add to cart

The Environmental Fate of Flotation Collectors in Mineral Processing Operations - Ethyl Xanthate as an Example

Organo-sulphur-based collectors (eg xanthates, dithiocarbamates and dithiophosphates) are widely used in the flotation of sulphide minerals. Xanthates (ROC(=S)S-), for example, adsorb strongly at sulphide mineral surfaces, in a reaction that is electrochemically coupled with the reduction of dissolved oxygen. One of the oxygen reduction products, hydrogen peroxide, reacts directly with dissolved xanthate, leading to its oxidative decomposition._x000D_
Experimental work has been conducted, using ethyl xanthate, to understand the molecular mechanism by which hydrogen peroxide reacts with xanthates. A number of degradation products have been identified, some of which have not been reported previously. This oxidative decomposition reaction pathway is discussed in the broader context of xanthate decomposition in flotation systems._x000D_
One of the identified ethyl xanthate decomposition products, ethyl perxanthate (ROC(=S)SO-), has been observed in the process water of a number of mineral processing operations. The interaction of this molecule with goethite (-FeOOH) particles, typical of that found in tailings dams, has been studied in more detail using attenuated total reflectance (ATR)-FTIR. The ethyl perxanthate molecule has been found to coordinate to iron (FeIII) at the goethite surface, and undergo a surface-catalysed decomposition process. In the presence of both PbII and goethite, a ternary surface complex is formed, where ethyl perxanthate is coordinated directly to surface adsorbed PbII atoms._x000D_
The results obtained give some insight into the environmental fate of ethyl xanthate in tailings streams, and a basis on which to consider the environmental importance of such species in tailings dams. Strategies for the destruction of residual xanthate levels in waste water streams are discussed in terms of the likely reaction products.
Return to parent product
  • The Environmental Fate of Flotation Collectors in Mineral Processing Operations - Ethyl Xanthate as an Example
    PDF
    This product is exclusive to Digital library subscription
  • The Environmental Fate of Flotation Collectors in Mineral Processing Operations - Ethyl Xanthate as an Example
    PDF
    Normal price $22.00
    Member price from $0.00
    Add to cart

    Fees above are GST inclusive

PD Hours
Approved activity
  • Published: 2002
  • PDF Size: 0.443 Mb.
  • Unique ID: P200204038

Our site uses cookies

We use these to improve your browser experience. By continuing to use the website you agree to the use of cookies.