Multi-criteria decision making for collector selection in the flotation of lead–zinc sulfide ore

• TOPSIS is used for multi criteria decision making for collector selection.
• Optimum xanthate and dose rate were selected for galena flotation from Pb to Zn ore.
• Decision making were performed according to the different selection criteria.
• Final step is a developed mathematical model.

The results of multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) for the selection of the optimum sulfide mineral collector and dose rate in a flotation study are presented. Laboratory scale flotation tests were performed to investigate selective flotation of galena from lead–zinc sulfide ores using several different xanthates at different dose rates. The flotation results show that the different tests result in changes lead concentrate grade, lead recoveries and selectivity against zinc. According to the selection criteria to maximize lead concentrate grades and recoveries while minimizing zinc concentrate grades as different factors, decision making and final selection of the optimum collector and dose rates are not simple since there is multiple options and outcomes to consider.A technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS), as well-known MCDM method, has been used for ranking xanthates not only using technological, but also economical factors. The results obtained show that MCDM is a useful tool for ranking and selection of tested collectors in flotation because of the ability to evaluate all factors fixed in flotation tests. The final step is a developed mathematical model for selection of optimal collector.