A novel method to improve depressants actions on calcite flotation

• The influence of lattice ions on calcite flotation has been investigated.
• Added lattice ions and its surface precipitation coating on mineral surface convert the hydrophobicity of calcite surface.
• Added lattice ions change the reactivity of calcite surface.

In this study, the flotation behavior, contact angle and surface adsorption of calcite were investigated in aqueous solution containing excess lattice ions (Ca2+ and CO32-). Flotation results show that adding lattice ions makes three kinds of depressants more effective. The contact angle test suggests that the use of both Ca2+ and CO32- results in a remarkable decrease in calcite surface hydrophobicity with sodium oleate and depressants, while it has little influence on calcite surface hydrophobicity without sodium oleate. Adsorption data indicates calcium carbonate coating on calcite surfaces may change the adsorption mechanism of depressants. The study presented that added lattice ions change reactivity of the calcite surface and improve depressants actions on calcite flotation.