Flotation and Foam Separation of Sulfur Ores Seawater.

It is established that seawater dehydrates the surface of native sulfur and sharply improves its flotability, while the minerals of the barren rock are not floated. The waterproofing effect of seawater is due to the action of salts and, to some extent, organic materials dissolved in it. The possibility of using seawater for flotation and foam separation of sulfur ores, and also for autoclave smelting of the concentrates, is demonstrated. The technological schemes developed make it possible to attain a high degree of extraction of sulfur, do not require the use of organic reagents, and completely eliminate contamination of the environment.