A reagent scheme for galena/sphalerite flotation separation: Insights from first-principles calculations

Galena (PbS) is an important and abundant source of lead (Pb) metal. It often coexists with other sulphide minerals such as sphalerite (ZnS). Flotation has been extensively used to separate galena and sphalerite. Herein, a reagent scheme comprising aerofloat collectors and Zn2+ and SO3 2-depressants is developed for the flotation separation of galena from sphalerite-rich sulphide ore. The flotation results demonstrate that Zn2+ and SO3 2provide a synergistic depression effect on sphalerite and the aerofloat collectors exhibit more selectivity towards galena. Static calculations and ab initio molecular dynamics simulations were employed to investigate the mechanism of the adopted reagent scheme on galena/sphalerite flotation separation at the atomic scale. The reagent scheme used here has great potential for beneficiating other galena-containing sulfide ores. The calculation and simulation results can help in the design of novel collectors and depressants exhibiting excellent selectivity for the flotation separation of galena/sphalerite.