Control of Non-Ferrous Metal-Sulfide Minerals’ Flotation via Pulp Potential

Abstract

Studies on the dependence of the technological results of non-ferrous sulfide ore (copper—arsenic-bearing and non-arsenic-bearing—lead–zinc, and polymetallic) flotation on the pulp potential Eh are reviewed. Findings on the relation of Eh and collectorless flotation are presented. Changes in the pulp potential due to different gas applications and various reagent additions are considered. The influence of the grinding medium on the pulp Eh and hence on the flotation results is presented through various examples. The relation between the oxidation–reduction potential and reagent effects is exhibited and explained. pH–Eh ranges of different minerals’ flotation, as recorded in various studies, are summarized and visualized jointly for all mentioned ores. It is concluded that the pulp Eh value, considered together with the pH value, is a useful means for flotation selection controlling and deserves further research, especially under industrial conditions. Some problems and difficulties in using pulp Eh for flotation control are discussed.