Randomized trial demonstrates improved flotation separation of chalcopyrite from pyrite using sulfonated dextrin, indicating a novel approach under low alkalinity conditions.
Key Points
The aim was to develop an effective selective depressant for pyrite in chalcopyrite–pyrite flotation under low alkalinity.
Synthesis of sulfonated dextrin via chemical modification.
Micro-flotation experiments at pH 8.0 to evaluate selective depression.
Contact angle, zeta potential, FTIR, and XPS analyses to assess surface interactions.
At pH 8.0, sulfonated dextrin achieved over 95% depression of pyrite.
Chalcopyrite recovery increased from 80.56% to 87.65% with a 100 mg/L dosage of sulfonated dextrin.
Sulfonated dextrin significantly enhanced the hydrophilicity of pyrite, affecting adsorption dynamics.