Effects of lead ions on the flotation of hemimorphite using sodium oleate

• Effects of lead ions on the flotation of hemimorphite was attempted.
• Lead ions positively shift the zeta potential of hemimorphite.
• Lead ions could enhance the oleate ions adsorption on hemimorphite surface.

The effects of Pb(II) ions on the flotation of hemimorphite was investigated by micro-flotation tests, zeta-potential measurements, solution chemistry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The micro-flotation results indicated that the Pb(II) effectively improved the flotation of hemimorphite minerals. Good floatability of minerals was obtained in the pH region 7 to 9. Adsorption/precipitation of the hydrolyzed species of lead cations occurred in this pH region, these species promote sodium oleate adsorption and from lead oleate on the surface of hemimorphite.