Adsorption characteristics and floatability of cerussite with ethylxanthate in the presence of dissolved lead ion

Abstract

The effect of lead ion on cerussite floatability and surface characteristics were examined using K-ethyl-xanthate at pH 6–7. The floatability of cerussite was tested in the modified Hallimond tube. Changes on cerussite surface were determined by infrared attenuated reflection spectroscopy (ATR-IR). The presence of Pb 2+, in a large range of concentrations (from 5×10 −8 to 2.5×10 −5 mol dm −3 ) with 1×10 −4 mol dm −3 of ethylxanthate, did not improve the cerussite flotation when the decantation was not performed. IR spectra did not show the presence of monolayer Pb-ethylxanthate in this condition. After decantation the Pb-acetate solution before K-ethylxanthate was added a much better floatability of cerussite was obtained. A prolonged agitation with Pb-acetate solution provided for a promoted cerussite flotation without decantation of the solution. A similar effect was produced when cerussite was agitated in distilled water (30 min) before ethylxanthate was added. It seems that a readsorption of hydrolyzed lead ion complex has occurred, providing the surface adsorption of EX − from the solution. The IR spectra showed a rise in the monolayer form of Pb-ethylxanthate with the increasing time of agitation.