Electrochemical investigation of pyrite floatability and hydrophobicity with Dithiophosphate and Fe-Ions

Abstract

This research was performed to elucidate the role of DTP and Fe ions on the hydrophobicity and floatability of pyrite in chemically controlled electrochemical conditions between 0-500 mV vs. SHE. Experimental works suggested that hydrophobicity and floatability decreased by increasing the pulp potential in collectorless condition, which resulted from the oxidation of pyrite surface. Increase in potential promotes the formation of hydrophilic ferric species on pyrite. In collectorless condition, iron ions did not change hydrophobicity except minor decrease in mildly oxidizing potentials, whereas floatability increased gradually with the addition of ferrous and ferric ions. DTP improved the hydrophobicity and floatability of pyrite. On the other hand, Fe-ions reduced the positive effect of collector: Fe ions inhibit collector adsorption on the mineral surface. This was attributed to selective approach of DTP ions against Fe ions.