Bioflotation of Sarcheshmeh copper ore using Thiobacillus Ferrooxidans bacteria

In the presence of Thiobacillus Ferrooxidans, and xanthate as collector, pyrite was depressed, whereas chalcopyrite and other sulfide minerals were unaffected at natural pH. The present investigation shows that the surface chemical properties of bacteria can be manipulated successfully to achieve the desired effects on the flotation process. The results showed that recovery of pyrite in the presence of a depressant (Thiobacillus Ferrooxidans) is 50% lower than in the absence of any bacteria, demonstrating the depressing effect of bacteria on pyrite. It was concluded that the use of Thiobacillus Ferrooxidans would decrease the recovery of pyrite but would not changed the floatability of chalcopyrite.