Modeling of flotation system of galena as way to process improvement and environment protection

Abstract

Main idea to prevent the ground contamination by heavy metals is to extract them maximally with minimum
consumption of chemical reagents. So, a perfect studying of pulp ionic structure, an adjustment of the
sulphuric ores flotation parameters and modelling of minerals selectivity variables, by using thermodynamic
method of analysis, the behaviour of lead xanthenes surface state in solution and experimental investigations
results, allow obtaining quantitative physico-chemical models of minimum necessary xanthenes concentration
of lead sulphide complete flotation. The optimal pH values ensuring a complete flotation of galena are agree
with the potential of zero or minimum charge of its surface, and the optimal composition of the collector
sorption layer consisting both of chemisorbed xanthenes and physically adsorbed dixanthenes. In additional,
we've obtained quantitative physico-chemical models for the necessary xanthenes concentration of lead
sulphide complete flotation in the case of different oxidation products of galena surface in pH values from 7,0
up to 12,0. Physico-chemical models derived can be used as the criteria for functional units of automation
systems to control and regulate the flotation process in mineral processing plants. All these should conduct to
increasing of metals extraction degree with minimum chemical reagents consumption and providing good
environmental protection.