Effect of corrosion inhibitors on grinding and flotation of a lead-zinc ore

Abstract

Grinding and flotation experiments on a Pb-Zn ore were carried out to evaluate: 1) wear of the grinding media both in the presence and absence of an inhibitor and 2) effect of the inhibitor on the flotation of PbZn minerals. The percentage reduction in the wear of the grinding media was observed to be between 25–36%, depending on the type of the inhibitor and its critical concentration. The inhibitors used in the investigation were sodium sulphite, sodium nitrite, sodium chromate and sodium silicate. The results indicate that a specific corrosion inhibitor, for example sodium sulphite, may give better recoveries and grades in flotation but is not as efficient as sodium chromate in inhibiting the wear of the grinding media. Pulp solutions (after grinding) analysed for metal ion concentrations showed low Fe. Iron released into the solution as a result of corrosion reactions subsequently forms insoluble hydroxy complexes and may coat the mineral surfaces. Such hydrophilic coatings may adversely affect the floatabilities of minerals. The particle size analysis of the ground product has been carried out and the results are discussed.