An investigation into the effect of various ions and their ionic strength on the flotation performance of a platinum bearing ore from the Merensky reef

The presence of ions in plant water is believed to be having an effect on the flotation process as ions are able to modify the chemistry of the system. This study investigated the interactive effects of ionic strength, depressant dosage and depressant type on the recovery of copper and nickel sulphides, water, floatable and entrained gangue as well as grade of the valuable sulphides in the flotation of a Pt bearing ore from the Merensky reef. Batch flotation results showed no change in Cu recovery, but Ni recovery decreased dramatically when a polysaccharide depressant was charged at 500 g/t. Water recovery increased with increasing ionic strength, indicating that there exist ions in the water system which have a froth stabilising effect.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Increased the final mass and water recovery. ► Showed no effect on final Cu and Ni recovery. ► Decreased the Cu and Ni grades. ► Decreased the entrainability factor.