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Flotation Reagents
1947

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MINERAL DRESSING NOTES ~

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AMERICAN CYANAMID COMPANY

MINERAL DRESSING DIVISION

30 Rockefeller Plaza January, 1947

Number IS New York 20,
N. Y.

FLOTATION READENTS ~
GO

In the seven years that have elapsed since the publication of the second
edition of Flotation ReagentsOre Dressing Notes Number 7, the activities
of the American Cyanamid Company in the field of mineral beneficiation
have expanded. In addition to the introduction of new and improved flotation
reagents, machines and processesboth in the metallic and non-metallic fields
Cyanamici has been appointed the world-wide technical and sales repre-
sentative for Heavy-Media Separation Processes, which are the most efficient
gravity methods of concentrating fragmentary materials, including coal. Be-
cause of the increased scope of Cyanamids interests, the designation Metal-
lurgical Chemicals Division of American Cyanamid Company no longer
accurately describes the breadth of Cyanamids activities and has been
changed to Mineral Dressing Division and the name of Cyanamids Ore
Dressing Laboratory has been changed to Mineral Dressing Laboratory.
Conforming to these changes, Cyanamids technical publication for the Mining
Industry, formerly entitled Ore Dressing Notes (Numbers 1.14), will now
be known as Mineral Dressing Notes beginning with this issue, Number 15.
This publication presents the up-to-date knowledge and experience accu-
mulated during this seven year interval, as well as much of the information l~u~

contained in Ore Dressing NotesNumber 7. The most recent Cyanamid

developments in the field of flotation are the applications of the 500 Series
Flotation Reagents to the selective separation of such minerals as molybdenite
from chalcopyrite and other copper suiphides; processes for the selective
flotation of non-metallic and metallic oxide minerals with the new 800 g~g
00
Series Flotation Reagents, especially iron-bearing minerals; and new appli. ~1.
cations ofthe 600 Series Flotation Reagents as selective depressants.
Elsewhere in this publication are described the characteristics and uses of
the wide variety of flotation reagents that are offered by Cyanamid for all H
types of minerals, non-metallic as well as suiphide and non-suiphide base
metal ores, including promoters, collectors, frothers, alkalinity and acidity
regulators, depressants and activators. In addition, a brief description is given
of the flotation processes using the reagents mentioned, together with the tech-
niques of the selective flotation of the common base metal sulphide minerals
and the beneficiation of many non-metallic ores.
A feature of this new edition of Flotation Reagents is the compilation
of average quantities of reagents fed to flotation circuits, method of feeding,
 points of addition, and the minerals on which the various reagents are most
effective.
Inquiries for additional data on the information presented in this publica-
tion may be addressed to the most conveniently located Cyanamicl representa-
tive, as listed on the back page of this publication. Correspondence to the New
York office should be marked for the attention of the Mineral Dressing
Division.

PJIOMUTEIIS OR COLLECTORS
Reagents which give bubble adherence and water repellency to surfaces of minerals to be
floated are designated promoters or collectors. These reagents are more or less selec-
tive towards minerals of a certain class. Their selectivity may be enhanced by careful control
of the quantity added, and by the addition of controlling or modifying agents.
In general, promoters may be considered as falling into two classes as follows:
(1) Anionic type
(2) Cationic type
In order that promoters may be effective, they must comprise two parts, one part non-polar
(hydrocarbon) and the other polar; and capable of adhering, by virtue of adsorption or
chemical reaction, to the surfaces of specified minerals. /

Although resembling frothers to the extent of being heteropolar, promoters differ from
frothers in that the polar part of an effective promoter must have a particular affinity for a
particular mineral. (The polar part of a frother should have affinity for water only.) Thus, it
is found that in the case of promoters for suiphide minerals, for example, the hydroxyl group
in the polar part of a frother is replaced by the less water-avid suiph-hydrate group.
Examples of anionic type promoters include the liquid and solid Aerofloat Flotation
Reagents, xanthates, the 400 Series promoters, Thiocarbanilide 130, etc., for the flotation
of base metal and precious metal ores. Also included in this classification are the various fatty
acids, saponified or suiphonated or sulphated fatty acids, and suiphonated or suiphated higher
alcohols, for the flotation of non-suiphide and non-metallic ores and minerals.
Cationic type promoters are characterized by their ability to ionize in water and form an
organic positive ion and a negative halide or acetateion. These promoters are especially useful
for the flotation of quartz and certain other silicate minerals. Examples include lauryl pyri-
dinium iodide and lauryl amine hydrochloride.
For more detailed information concerning the theoretical aspects of flotation reagents the
reader is referred to Handbook of Mineral Dressingby Professor A. F. Taggart; Flota-
tion by Professor A. M. Gaudin; Principles of Flotation by I. W. Wark; and Develop-
ment and Use of Certain Flotation Reagents by R. S. Dean and P. M. Ambrose of the United
States Bureau of Mines.
 a
Liquid AllrufIuat Flutaliun RI~aqllnts
The following reagents comprise the group of Liquid Aerofloat* Flotation Reagents.
4~j~
Aerofloat Flotation Reagent 15 ~ic~ gi
Aerofloat Flotation Reagent 25 a~
Aerofloat Flotation Reagent 31 ~ El
Aerofloat Flotation Reagent 33
Aerofloat Flotation Reagent 241
Aerofloat Flotation Reagent 242 0

Ga
Aerofloat Flotation Reagents 15 and 25 are general purpose, selective flotation reagents combining both ~ p.
promoting and frothing properties. Aerofloat 25 is a stronger promoter than Aerofloat 15.
Aerofloat Flotation Reagents 31 and 33 are similar in physical characteristics to Aerofloat 25 but are
stronger promoters.
Aerofloat Flotation Reagents 241 and 242 are strong, water-soluble promoters with some frothing char- 00
acteristics. They are especially suitable where a fast, selective, and active promoter is essential and no
conditioning with the pulp is possible.

Aeroflocxt Flotation Aerofloat Flotation aGO

Reagent 15 Reagent 25
This member of the liquid Aerofloat Flotation This reagent is similar in its properties to Aero.
Reagent group is both a promoter and a strong float 15, hut is a stronger promoter, with less frothier
frother. power.
Properties: Properties:
Color Black Color Black
Specific Gravity 1.10 Specific Gravity 1.19
Solubility Partially water-soluble. It
Solubility Partially water.soluble. It

should be fed in its original form and may
not be mixed in the reagent feeder with
any other reagent, except cresylic acid.
Due to the partial solubility in water of
Aerofloat 15, best results are obtained by
adding it to a conditioner or to the ball
mill, so that it is thoroughly conditioned
with the ore before entering the flotation
cells.
Viscosity Slightly higher than that of
cresylic acid.
Use: It is an effective reagent forsilver, copper,
should be fed in its original form and may
not be mixed in the reagent feeder with
any other reagent, except cresylic acid.
Due to the partial solubility in water of
Aerofloat 25, best results are obtained by
adding it to a conditioner or to the ball
mill, so that it is thoroughly conditioned
with the ore before entering the flotation
cells.
Viscosity Slightly higher than that of
Aerofloat 15.
Use: This reagent is used when a stronger pro- [ g~

lead and zinc sulphides in the presence of moter than Aerofloat 15 is desired. Aero- 450

iron suiphides which it does not actively
promote in an alkaline circuit. It is also
a valuable secondary promoter and pri-
mary frother for use in floating gold ores.
Special Applications: For selective flotation of
silver and lead suiphide ores containing
iron sulphides. It is widely used as a
frother in gold flotation, in combination
with Reagents 208 and 301.
Aerofloat is a registered trademark of American Cyanamid Com-
pany applied to flotation reagents of its manufacture.
[3]
float 25 is an effective promoter for silver, El
copper, lead and zinc suiphide minerals.
Usually it does not float iron suiphide
minerals readily in an alkaline circuit.
In an acid or neutral circuit it is a strong,
non-selective promoter.frother for sul-
phides.
U
Special Applications: Aerofloat 25 is especially
effective for silver and lead ores. It is also 4545
~5
valuable in recovering overslimed cop.
per, lead and zinc suiphides. I
Aerofloat Flotation
Reagent 31
Aerofloat 31 is Aerofloat 25 fortified with a strong
promoter of limited solubility, and has about the
same frothing properties as Aerofloat 25.
Properties:
Color Black
Specific Gravity 1.19
Solubility Partially water-soluble. It
should be fed in its original form and may
not be mixed in the reagent feeder with
any other reagent, except cresylic acid.
Due to the partial solubility in water of
Aerofloat 31, the best results are obtained
by adding itto a conditioner or to the ball
mill, so that it is thoroughly conditioned
before entering the flotation cells.
Viscosity Slightly higher than that of
Aerofloat 15.
Use: Aerofloat 31 finds its greatest use in the
flotation of galena. It is also well-suited
to the flotation of oxidized gold ores, and
suiphide copper ores. It is not as well
suited to the flotation of sphalerite as is
Sodium Aerofloat. Aerofloat Flotation Re-
agent 31 is one of the best promoters for
silver minerals.
Special Applications: Especially suited to the
flotation of galena and silver suiphides.
Aerofloat Flotation
Reagent 33
Aerofloat 33 is somewhat similar to Aerofloat 31
except that the non-polar loading of the fortifying
agent includes a CH3 group. Aerofloat 33 has about
the same frothing properties as Aerofloat 31 and is
a slightly stronger promoter, especially for galena
and metallic copper.
Properties:
Color Black
Specific Gravity 1.19
Solubility Partially water-soluble. It
should be fed in its original form and may
not be mixed in the reagent feeder with
any other reagent, except cresylic acid.
Due to the partial solubility in water of
Aerofloat 33, the best results are obtained
by adding itto a conditioner or to the ball
mill, so that it is thoroughly conditioned
before entering the flotation cells.
Viscosity Slightly higher than that of
Aerofloat 15.
[4]
Use: Aerofloat 33 finds its greatest use in the
flotation of galena, especially argentifer-
ous galena, but it also works well as a
promoter for metallic gold and copper,
and copper suiphides.
Special Applications: Slightly more powerful
and less selective than Aerofloat 31, it
works well on locked mineral as well as
coarse free argentiferous galena, metallic
gold and copper, and copper sulphides.
Aerofloat Flotation
Reagent 241
Aerofloat Flotation Reagent 241 is a water-
soluble form of Aerofloat 25. It is more speedily re-
active in flotation than the foregoing Aerofloat Re-
agents and, therefore, especially suitable where a
fast acting promoter is essential and no conditioning
is possible. It is a strong promoter and has some
frothing characteristics.
Properties:
Color Greenish Black
Specific Gravity 1.13
Viscosity Approximately the same as that
of Aerofloat 25.
Solubility Dilute solutions are milky in
color.
Use: This reagent is especially well suited to
the flotation of argentiferous lead ores,
suiphide-copper ores, and zinc ores.
Special Applications: Experimental work has
shown that in the case of lead-silver ores
better results are obtained when the re-
agent is added to the conditioner ahead
of flotation rather than to the grinding
circuit.
Note: Upon long standing this reagent becomes
more translucent because of the settling
out of a minute portion of suspended mat-
ter. This has no effect on the performance
of the reagent.
Aerofloat Flotation
Reagent 242
Aerofloat Flotation Reagent 242 is a water-soluble
form ofAerofloat 31. This reagent is very similar to
Aerofloat Flotation Reagent 241 but is a stronger
promoter, and has some frothing properties.
Properties:
Color Black
Specific Gravity 1.13
 Viscosity Approximately the same as that Aerofloat Flotation Reagent 31, and for
of Aerofloat 31. this reason it is particularly well-adapted
Solubility Dilute solutions arc milky in to stage-feeding during flotation. In com-
color; stronger solutions, 2040%, are bination with Reagent 404 it gives excel-
relatively clear. lent results on gold ores.
(5
p P.
r~(D
Use: This reagent is especially well suited to U,.

the flotation of argentiferous lead ores, Note: Upon long standing this reagent becomes
and suiphide-copper ores. more translucent because of the settling
out of a minute portion of suspended mat-
Special Applications: Due to its ready solubility, ter. This has no effect on the performance
this reagent reacts faster in flotation than of the reagents. ~
The Dry Aerofluat Flotation Reatjents
It is often desirable to have independent control of promoting and frothing characteristics of reagents pp.
used in flotation. The dry Aerofloat Reagents were developed to meet this need where liquid Aerofloats
are used and where it is desired to increase the promoting properties without increasing the amount of froth.
The dry Aerofloats have also found wide applications in circuits using Pine Oil, Cresylic Acid, Frother B-48,
Frother 52 or Frother 58.
The dry Aerofloats are practically non-frothing promoters, consequently it is necessary to use a frothing
agent with them. All of these reagents are water-soluble and are commonly fed in the form of 5% to 10% U
water solutions.
The following Dry Aerofloats are now available:
Sodium Aerofloat
Sodium Aerofloat B
Aerofloat Flotation Reagent 203
Aerofloat Flotation Reagent 208
Aerofloat Flotation Reagent 213
Aerofloat Flotation Reagent 226
Aerofloat Flotation Reagent 238
Aerofloat Flotation Reagent 243
These reagents differ in their chemical composition, but are similar in their appearance. The following
is a brief general description:

Physical Properties of the Dry p P.

Eli
Aerofloat Flotation Reagents
Color Various shades ofgray. The color of each ofthese reagents varies between light and dark
gray. Differences in shade have no bearing on the effectiveness ofthis reagent.
00
Texture Granular to nodular. P.. 45
SolubilityReadily soluble in water up to about 10%. Solutions are usually cloudy. This cloudiness
is characteristic and is not due to decomposition.
The uses and special applications for each of the previously mentioned dry Aerofloat Flotation Reagents (p
are given in the following pages.
Sodium Aerofloat Use:
A powerful, selective zinc reagent. Also widely
This reagent was the first of the dry Aerofloats used in flotation of gold and silver and copper sui-
developed and immediately won a place for itself in phide minerals, in the presence of pyrite which it 0
0.
the field of zinc flotation. It is a non-frothing pro- does not actively promote. It is not recommended 4545

moter. for the flotation ofgalena.

[51
I
Sodium Aerofloat B
This reagent is similar to Sodium Aerofloat but
has been found preferable for some ores. The re-
covery of slimed sphalerite is often improved by the
use of Sodium Aerofloat B.
Aeroiloat Flotation
Reagent 203
This reagent is a good promoter for gold, silver,
copper and zinc ores. It is a stronger promoter than
Sodium Aerofloat or Sodium Aerofloat B, there-
fore smaller quantities of this reagent are required.
It produces slightly more froth than Sodium Aero-
float.
Special Applications:
It is an especially good promoter for zinc ores.
Aerofloat Flotation
Reagent 208
Like other members of the dry Aerofloat Flotation
Reagent group, Aerofloat 208 is a non-frothing pro-
moter. It finds its greatest application in the flotation
of gold, silver and copper ores. It is not generally
used as a lead promoter. Reagent 208 is one of the
best promoters yet developed for metallics such as
gold, copper and silver.
Uses:
Especially effective in the flotation of gold and
for silver and copper sulphide ores. This reagent,
either alone or in combination with Reagent 301,
forms an ideal promoter for gold ores, and is widely
used for this purpose.
A publication by the United States Bureau
of Mines, Progress ReportsMetallurgical Divi-
sion2. Gold-Recovery Studies, by E. S. Leaver,
J. A. Woolf, and R. E. head refers to Aerofloat
Flotation Reagent 208 as the most effective pro-
moter tried for this work. . . (This work refers to
recovery of fine gold which has been liberated from
suiphides and gangue.)
Special Application-s:
In the flotation of gold ores in which the gold
300 ~3nrins
IlnaqentsXanthates
Xanthates are made from a wide variety of alcohols. The particular characteristics of a Xanthate depend
upon the alcohol from which it is made. The higher alcohol xanthates, such as butyl and amyl xanthates, are
generally more powerful than those prepared from lower alcohols such as methyl and ethyl alcohol. Xanthates
made from alcohols containing more than six carbon atoms are not usually as effective collectors as those
made from alcohols having two to six carbon atoms.
Xanthates have the following properties:
[6]
occurs partly in the liberated form and partly in
association with pyrite or other suiphides, Reagent
208 and Reagent 301 are widely used as the
principal promoters in combination with Aerofloat
15 as a supplementary promoter and principal or
only frother. Reagent 208 is an especially good pro.
moter for chalcocite, bornite, covellite and other
secondary copper minerals.
Aeroiloat Flotation
Reagents 213 and 226
Aerofloat Flotation Reagents 213 and 226 are
strong promoters for gold, silver, zinc and copper
ores. Due to their strong promoter activity only
small quantities of these reagents are needed to give
good recovery.
Aerofloat Flotation Reagents 213 and 226 exhibit
some tendency to froth. Like the other members of
this group they do not float iron suiphides readily in
alkaline circuits. They are not recommended for the
flotation of galena.
Special Applications:
Flotation of coarse sphalerite and tarnished cop-
per and zinc suiphides.
Aerofloat Flotation
Reagent 238
This reagent resembles Aerofloat Flotation Re-
agent 208, and is a strong promoter for gold and
for silver, copper, and zinc suiphide ores. It is not a
good promoter for galena, and like the other dry
Aerofloats, it does not actively promote pyrite in an
alkaline circuit.
Special Applications:
This reagent is an excellent promoter for copper
suiphides, especially chalcopyrite.
Aerofloat Flotation
Reagent 243
This reagent resembles Aerofloat Flotation Re-
agent 203 but is a slightly stronger promoter. It is,
therefore, an excellent promoter for gold, silver,
copper and zinc ores.
 Color Yellow to light orange
Texture Dry and powdery

Solubility Highly soluble in water. Usual concentrations employed in feeding these reagents

vary from 5% to 10% solutions. >4

Use:
Xanthates, under suitable conditions, are good promoters for all sulpliide minerals. In the absence of a ~
modifying agents they are essentially non-selective in their action.
In conjunction with a suiphidizing agent they are also good promoters in the flotation of oxidized lead
and copper ores; (See Sodium Suiphide). 0

The principal Xanthates are: p0~P.

~5
Reagent 301
Reagent 322
Reagent 325
Reagent 343
Sodium Ethyl Xanthate IQtfl
45(5
Pp.
Potassium Ethyl Xanthate
Potassium Secondary Butyl Xanthate
Potassium Amyl Xanthate
Potassium Methyl Amyl Xanthate

UI.
Reagent 301 Reagent 325
One member of the higher Xanthate family de- This member of the xanthate group of reagents
serves special mention due to its wide use. This marketed by Cyanamid is made from a lower alco- 0
reagent, known as Reagent 301, is a xanthate of a hol than that used for the manufacture of Reagent (5

higher alcohol. It is a strong promoter for all
suiphide minerals.
Properties:
Color Light yellow to buff
Texture Dry and powdery
Solubility Highly soluble
Use:
It is very effective for use in bulk flotation of all
types of suiphide ores. It is also an efficient promoter
for oxidized base metal ores after suiphidizing. It is
widely used in the flotation of pyritic gold ores, in
combination with Reagent 208, and Aerofloat 15 as
a frother (see Reagent 208 and Aerofloat 15).
Special Applications:
It has been used effectively in the flotation of
arsenopyrite, cobalt and nickel suiphides and other
suiphide minerals which are difficult to float. Espe-
cially effective for the flotation of coarse auriferous
pyrite.
Reagent 322
This reagent, one of the newer members of the
higher xanthates is a strong promoter for all sul-
phide minerals. It is similar to Reagent 343
except that a different alkali is used in its manufac-
ture.
30L It is a strong promoter for the suiphide min-
erals in many types of ores where a xanthate-type
promoter can be used to advantage, either alone or
in combination with one of the liquid or dry Aero-
float Flotation Reagents. In general, its promoter
strength, pound for pound, is somewhat less than
that of Reagent 343 or Reagent 301.
Its color, texture and solubility are similar to
those of Reagent 301.
Special Applications:
For the bulk flotation of suiphide minerals which p :i.
El
do not require the use of a stronger promoter such
as Reagent 301 or a selective promoter such as one
of the liquid or dry Aerofloat Flotation Reagents.
Reagent 343
This is a newer member of the higher xanthate
family and like Reagent 301 is a strong promoter
~0
for all suiphide minerals. Its promoter activity lies (a
between Reagent 325 and Reagent 301.
Its properties and general uses are similar to
those of Reagent 301.
Special Applications: 00
ma
Recommended for use in cases where Reagent (D(5
325 does not provide sufficient promoter effect.

[71
Fl
 The 400 Series Rcaqents
The 400 Series Reagents were developed primarily for use in the flotation of oxidized base metal
ores. These reagents are promoters for oxidized lead and copper minerals after suiphidization, and in some
cases give good recovery without the addition of a suiphidizing agent.
Certain members of this group of Reagents have also been found to be very effective promoters for fine
free gold, auriferous pyrite, and tarnished sulphides.
in general, the 400 Series Reagents require a longer time of conditioning with the ore pulp than
xanthate type promoters. These reagents are, therefore, usually added to the grinding circuit or to a condi-
tioner preceding the flotation circuit.
The 400 Series Reagents usually are most effective in a soda ash circuit or in conjunctionwith alkaline
phosphates such as tetrasodium pyrophosphate. The latter type of addition agents are particularly useful in
the flotation of oxidized lead ores containing iron oxide slimes.

Reagent 404 Properties:

Color Yellow to greenish yellow
This reagent was developed especially for floating
lead carbonate without the use of a suiphidizing TexturePowdery when dry. Hygroscopic.
Solubility Readily soluble in water, but
agent. It has some frothing properties, more so than
a small amount of inert material settles
the other members of this group of promoters. out upon standing. Solutions greenish
Properties: colored.
Color Greenish yellow
Special Characteristics:
Texture Pasty
Solutions should be made up daily to prevent
SolubilityReadily solublerecommend
undue oxidation. Drums should be kept in a dry
5% solution for feeding.
place and should be tightly covered.
Use:
Reagent 404 is primarily a promoter for oxidized Use:
lead ores. It has also found some use as a promoter This reagent is a good promoter for oxidized
for copper and zinc sulphide ores. copper minerals, particularly malachite and azurite.
It is also a good promoter for sulphide minerals,
Special Applications:
Promoter for lead carbonate without use of a especially pyrite, arsenopyrite and tetrahedrite.
suiphidizing agent. It has also been used in the flota- Special Applications:
tion of vanadium ores. An excellent promoter for Flotation of malachite and azurite without sui-
auriferous pyrite and fine free gold. phidization. Also an excellent promoter for tar-
Many flotationoperations treating gold-silverores nished auriferous pyrite.
report improved results using Reagent 404 alone or
in combination with Reagent 242. In the treatment Reagent 444
of oxidized lead-silver ores, Reagent 404 offers ad- This reagent has found application in the flotation
vantages over xanthate and a sulphidizing agent of copper and zinc suiphide ores.
since the latter mentioned must be carefully staged
in order to avoid depression of silver minerals. Characteristics:
Color Yellow
Reagent 425 Texture Dry, powdery
This reagent was developed primarily for the Solubility Readily soluble -

flotation of oxidized copper ores, especially ores Use:

containing malachite. Subsequently other applica- An effective promoter for slow-floating lead,
tions have been found. copper, and zinc suiphide minerals.

Miscellaneous Promoters
Thiocarbanilide in the flotation of base metal sulphide ores, along
with other promoters such as the Aerofloat reagents
A valuable supplementary promoter widely used and xanthates.

[8]
 Properties: Stability As stable as ordinary dry thio.
Color White carbanilide under all conditions. Not
Texture Fluffy powder
hygroscopic.
Solubility Insoluble in water and should
Solubility Readily dispersible in water,
be fed dry to the grinding mill. but is usually fed most satisfactorily in
(T. & T. Mixture is made by heating not more the dry form. In dilute slurry, Thiocar-
than 15% Thiocarbanilide in 85% Orthotoluidine. banilide 130 shows some tendency to set-
It has the disadvantage that upon cooling, part of the tle out slowly. However, this is not ex-
thiocarbanilide separates out. Therefore, T. & T. cessive.
Mixture should be kept hot.) 0

0~
Use: Uses: P.
45
A good promoter for lead, copper and silver ores. Applicable in all cases where ordinary thiocar-
banilide has been found useful. Being readily dis-
Thiocarbanilide 130 persible, it can be added to the flotation circuit in ~ O~

An easily wettable and more dispersable form addition to the grinding circuit preceding flotation if
(atI)
of thiocarbanilide. desired. It finds particular application in the flota- P
tion of complex copper-lead-zinc sulphide ores, El
Properties: where it is used as a selective promoter for copper
Color Cream to white and lead suiphides.

Nun-Metallic and Metallic Oxide Promoters 0 ~

The commonly used anionic type promoters for non-suiphide, non-metallic and metallic oxide ores may
be listed as follows:
1. Reagent 708 and other fatty acids and their soaps and emulsions.
2. The 800 Series Reagents.
3. Aerosol* Wetting Agents.

Reagent 708 creases the fluidity of Reagent 708 and

This is a fatty acid of vegetable origin which is
widely used in the flotation of non-metallic minerals
particularly phosphate rock, and cement rock.
Physical Properties:
Color Dark brown to brownish black.
Specific Gravity 0.89 to 1.00.
makes it easier to feed and more readily
dispersible in the ore pulp.
3. This promoter is frequently used in the
form of a soap into which it is readily
converted by dissolving it in a 50% caus-
tic soda solution. One part of this latter
(a WJ
solution will saponify 3 parts of Reagent (50

Viscosity Fluid at room temperatures,

but tends to become thick and viscous at
lower temperatures.
Solubility Substantially insoluble in
4. Reagent 708 may be fed as an emulsion
water, but soluble in alkalies and hydro-
carbons.
Methods of Feeding:
1. Reagent 708 may be fed in its original
form provided that it is rendered fluid by
heating to permit dispensing by a suit-
able liquid reagent feeder.
2. Another convenient method of feeding
Reagent 708 is to mix it in equal propor-
tions with a light fuel oil. The latter in-
5
Aerosol is the registered trademark name used by the American
Cyanamid Company to designate anionic type wetting agents of its
manufacture. - Emulsions of Reagent 708 produce less froth
708, leaving a slight excess of caustic
soda. The soap may then be diluted, to
about 5% solution for feeding.
into which it can be readily formed by
P
vigorously stirring a mixture of equal E~
quantities of the Reagent and hot water
(about 180F). To this mixture there is
then added one part by weight of 50%
solution caustic soda to 30 parts of Re-
agent 708, vigorous stirring being main-
tained during the mixing and subse-
quently for the required time. The result-
ing emulsion may be diluted to any con-
venient strength for feeding, and is rea-
(5
sonably stable. a.

- ~ [91
during flotation than the saponified product. Sodium base metal oxidized ores.
soaps of Reagent 708 create less froth than potas- This promoter is frequently used in conjunction
sium soaps. with the less expensive Reagent 708.
Uses: Physical Properties:
Reagent 708 possesses both collecting and froth- Color Amber to reddish.

ing properties and is especially suited to the flota- Specific Gravity 0.894.

tion of such non-metallic minerals as apatite and Viscosity Variable, depending on purity,
phosphate rock, calcite, fluorite, barite, pyrolusite, but generally fluid at ordinary room tem-
and other manganese oxides. It has also been found peratures. Viscous at lower temperatures.
appllcablein the flotation of th~~id ci flli~~ Solubility-- Poorly- soluble, but emulsifi-
~

minerals, such as woiframite, scheelite, and cas-
siterite.
Oleic Acid
Like Reagent 708, oleic acid is widely used in
flotation of non.metallic and metallic oxide ores and
able in water. Soluble in alcohol and
hydrocarbons such as light fuel oil.
Use:
Commonly used for flotation of alkaline earth
carbonates, barite, metallic oxides and carbonates,
etc.

The 8011 Series Ileaqenis

Improved processes using these flotation reagents were developed recently at the Mineral Dressing
Laboratory of the American Cyanamid Company to fill the need for low cost reagents that would promote
iron-bearing minerals selectively. They have been found to be excellent promoters for this purpose and, in
addition, have shown considerable promise in the selective flotation of a number of metallic and non-metallic
minerals, or in the removal of iron.bearing minerals and other impurities from glass sand, feldspar, kyanite,
etc., in order to meet specifications required of the final product.
The series comprises the following Reagents:
Reagent 801, Reagent 825.
Physical Properties:
These reagents are dark-colored, water-soluble or water-dispersible syrups or pastes of varying vis-
cosities. They are usually fed as water solutions or dispersions.
In addition to being effective promoters, the reagents of the 800 Series have frothing properties as
well. In the flotation of some ores, improved promoter efficiency and better froth control results from admix-
ture of a certain amount of Reagent 825 with Reagent 801.
The quantities of the 800 Series Reagents required for flotation will vary according to the character-
istics of the particular material being floated, but in general will range from about 0.5 to 4.0 pounds per ton
of dry solids.
Method of Application:
If the flotation feed contains an appreciable quantity of slimes, the amount of reagents required is
reduced and better flotation efficiencymay be expected by desliming.
Following deslirning, the flotation feed is thickened to 65%75% solids and conditioned with Reagent
801 or Reagent 825 and a strong acid. Conditioning the pulp with the promoter in the presence of an acid is
an important step in increasing the selectivity of the promoter and improving the metallurgy. Fuel oil, when
used, is also added to the feed at this point. The quantity of Reagent 801 or 825 required may range from
1 lb. to 4 lbs. per ton of dry solids, while the quantity of acid may vary from 0.5 lbs. to 7.0 lbs. and of fuel oil
from 0.5 lbs. to 2 lbs. per ton of dry solids. Aerofloat 31 may also be added if an additional frother is
required.
After conditioning, the feed is diluted to 20% to 30% solids and sent to the flotation machines. It is
advisable to determine the effect of varying the pH of the circuit, by adding soda ash or caustic soda to the
diluted pulp or additional acid to the conditioning step.

[10 :i
Reagent 801 promoter for calcite, fluorspar, barite, tungsten
minerals, lepidolite, celestite, etc.
Physical Properties: Typical examples and results using this reagent
Color brownish black.
and processes of treating feldspar ore and glass
Specific Gravity 1.10 1.12.
sands are to be found on Page 33 of this bulletin.
Solubility Readily soluble in water at
ordinary temperatures. May be fed as
12% to 30% solutions. Reagent 825
Viscosity Viscous syrup or paste. Heat-
Physical Properties:
ing increases fluidity. Color Mahogany brown.
Special Applications: Specific Gravity 1.01 1.02.
Reagent 801 was developed to beneficiate fine Solubility Dispersible in water upon
sized iron ore and washery wastes. Excellent results fairly vigorous agitation. More readily
have been obtained with a pilot plant installation on dispersible in hot water. Admixture of
the Iron Range treating ten tons per hour for two Reagent 801 with Reagent 825 increases (5

seasons. This reagent is a cheap and effective pro- the dispersibility of the latter. Usually P P.
moter for iron oxides such as hematite, limonite, fed as a 5 to 12% dispersion in water, .45

goethite, magnetite, arid siderite in new processes but may be fed as a solution in fuel oils,
developed by Cyanamid engineers. Additional in- hydrocarbons, frothers, etc., if so desired.
formation on the flotation of iron ores and tailings is Viscosity Viscous paste, thicker than Re-
given under Iron Ores on Page 33 of this bulletin. agent 801. Heating increases its fluidity. (5 0,

Reagent 801 has also been found particularly
useful in connection with the selective flotation of
certain iron.bearing impurities such as iron oxides,
biotite, chlorite, garnet, talc, ilmenite, etc. from
glass sands and ceramic raw materials such as feld-
spar, kyanite, and the like. In this type of flotation
operation, improved results are frequently obtained
by the addition of a small amount of Aerofloat 31
to the conditioner ahead of flotation.
Reagent 801 also has shown promise as a good
Use: ~ 2.
Reagent 825 is a strong promoter and generally
produces less froth than Reagent 801. On some ores
this promoter is more selective in its action than
Reagent 801. Some operators prefer a mixture of
Reagent 825 and Reagent 801.
Special Applications:
Reagent 825 is particularly useful as a fortifying
agent in conjunction with less expensive members of
the 800 Series Reagents.

a ,
a 45
0.
U-

0
45
5 .

.P~

ma
mm

[113
 TILE AEROSOL WETTIND JThENTS
The Aerosol Wetting Agents are finding increasing use in flotation operations, particularly in the field of
metallic oxide and non-metallic flotation. The following brief summary of the properties and uses of the
Aerosol Reagents is presented in answer to the many inquiries which have been received concerning them.
The Aerosol Wetting Agents are of the so-called anionic type and possess pronounced penetrating,
detergent, emulsifying, and dispersing properties.

Types 100%. It dissolves readily in water at room tem-

Aerosol OT Aerosol MA
Aerosol AY Aerosol OS
Aerosol 18 Aerosol 22
Aerosol lB Aerosol AS
Aerosol OT
(Di-octyl sulfo-succinic acidsodium salt)
AerosolUT is available in four convenient forms:
Aerosol OT 100% (Pellets)
Aerosol OT 85% (Paste)
Aerosol OT Clear (Liquid)
Aerosol OT-C (Powder)
Aerosol OT 100%
Aerosol UT is the most powerful wetting agent on
the market today. Our laboratories have investi-
gated more than 200 different wetting agents but
have not yet found any commercially available
product as powerful as Aerosol OT. It is practically
a chemically-pure product, and is to date the only
wetting agent which is supplied to the trade in con-
centrations of 99.5%100%.
Aerosol OT 85%
This product is a clear viscous dispersion of
Aerosol OT 100% in water.
Like Aerosol OT, this product requires a soaking
treatment for making dilutions, but it dissolves and
disperses more readily. It is the most economical
form of Aerosol UT.
Aerosol OT Clear
This member of the Aerosol UT group is a water-
white, free-pouring liquid consisting of Aerosol OT
100%, water and a mutual solvent. It is obtainable
in 70%, and 25% concentrations.
Aerosol OT-.C
This product consists of a mixture of Aerosol
OT 100% and an inertorganic diluent. It is a white,
free-flowing powder, containing 10% Aerosol OT
peratures and higher.
Aerosol MA
(wax-like pellets)
(Di (methyl amyl) sulfo-succinic acid sodium
salt)
This product is somewhat hydroscopic and is
readily soluble in water and in electrolyte solutions.
It is less soluble than Aerosol OT 100% in polar
and non-polar organic liquids.
Aerosol AY
(hard, pelletpowder mixture)
(Di.amyl sulfo-succinic acidsodium salt)
Resembles Aerosol OT in appearance but is
markedly less plastic.
Aerosol AY is even more soluble in water and
electrolyte solutions than Aerosol MA. It can be
used in more concentrated solutions than Aerosol
OT and AerosolMA. It is somewhat soluble in polar
organic liquids but almost insoluble in non-polar
liquids.
Aerosol OS
(Powder)
(Sodium isopropyl naphthalene sulfonate)
This product is the sodium salt of an alkyl naph-
thalene sulfonic acid, practically 95% pure. It is a
yellowish brown powder and is hydroscopic. It is
also marketed in the form of a 66% paste.
Aerosol OS is characterized by its stability in
alkaline and acid solutions, in fact it is more power-
ful under such conditions than in water.
Aerosol AS
(Liquid)
This brown liquid is a solution of Aerosol US in
water and a mutual solvent.
Aerosol lB
(white, powder-like pellets)
(Iso butyl sodium sulfo-succinate)
This product is very soluble in water and is the

[12]
type of Aerosol wetting agent designed for use in the
most concentrated solutions of electrolytes, in which
it has more activity than in ordinary water. It is
somewhat soluble in polar organicliquids, but prac-
tically insoluble in non-polar organic liquids.
Aerosol 18
(Paste)
Aerosol 18 (N.octadecyl disodium sulfo.succina-
mate) is a light cream-colored, smooth paste, con-
taining 3536% active ingredient, 6465% water.
It has a pleasant odor and its aqueous solutions are
soap-like in taste. It is readily dispersible in water,
yielding pearly, opalescent colloidal dispersions,
which become clear on heating. These dispersions
are best prepared by adding warm water slowly to
the paste while mixing. A 10% dispersion is opaque
and pearly, and settles slowly on long standing.
1% solutions, or less, remain clear after heating.
Aerosol 18 is notable for its detergency, dispersing
power, foaming power, acid and alkaline stability
and solubilizing action on soaps in strong alkali and
salt solutions.
Aero~o122
(Pellets)
Aerosol 22 (N-octadecyl tetrasodium N (1, 2
dicarboxyethyl sufo-succinamate) is a light tan,
brittle, solid containing 95% active ingredient. It is
supplied in cylindrical pellets, which can easily be
ground to a fine powder. It is very soluble in hot or
cold water yielding clear solutions in concentrations
up to 40%. A 1% solution is bitter to the taste.
Aerosol 22 is notable for its solubilizing power. It
may be used to liquify concentrated soap gels and
prevent soaps from precipitating or curding in the
presence of electrolytes. The addition of Aerosol 22
to soaps improves their foaming characteristics.
Aerosol 22 is soluble in 30% sodium hydroxide
solution and may be used to solubilize wetting
agents (normally insoluble in this concentration of
caustic) for purpose of mercerization.
As is the case with electrolyte solutions, it is nec-
essary to determine by experiment the suitability of
each particular solvent, hydrocarbon, oil, fat, or wax
for each AerosolWetting Agent; but in general their
solubility in such organic materials decreases in the
order: Aerosol OT, Aerosol MA, Aerosol AY, Aero-
sol IB, Aerosol OS.
Alkali Stability
Aerosol OT, Aerosol MA and Aerosol AY are riot
recommended for use in dilute solutions having a
pH higher than 10.5. They are stable indefinitely up
[13
to a pH of 8.5, whereas they are decomposed at an
increasing rate as pH increases and temperature
rises. In cases where the milder alkalies are em-
ployed, these products are sufficiently stable for all
practical purposes, Aerosol OS is entirely stable in
both strong acids and strong alkalies.
Aerosol 18 greatly increases the wetting action of
soap in strong caustic solutions.
Aerosol 22 because of its tolerance of saturated
salt solutions has a wider range of application than
Aerosol 18. It may be used to reduce the viscosity of
soap solutions, also to increase the salt tolerance
of soaps.
Stability in Acids
Aerosol OT and its homologues (Aerosol MA and
Aerosol AY) are quite stable in acid solutions in
such concentrations as are usually employed in in-
dustry. Aerosol Wetting Agents should be tested
wherever other wetting agents have not proved satis- am
factory. Although the stability of Aerosol OT, Aero-
sol MA, Aerosol AY and Aerosol lB in acid solu-
tions is less than in water, it should be remembered
that frequently their stability is sufficient to permit
their use for a reasonable length of time. 1
In cases where the concentration of acid is suf- 0
ficiently high to prevent the use of either Aerosol OT
or Aerosol MA, it is suggested that Aerosol AY and
Aerosol TB be tried.
Permanent emulsions of oils, fats and waxes or
their combinations can readily be made with Aerosol a.
45
OT in conjunction with the proper assistants. P.
For the more stable types of emulsions, using the a
Aerosol Wetting Agents as auxiliary emulsifying
agents, it is suggested that protective colloids, such
as glue, starches, water soluble gums, cellulose T ~L a
ethers and esters be used, also that solid emulsifiers, 0~
D~
such as clays, carbon black, silica, bentonite, etc.,
be tried. One part of Aerosol OS with from one to
three parts of glue often produces very satisfactory
results. In all cases, it should be remembered that
the Aerosol Wetting Agents should usually be used
in combination with hydrophilic colloids having the P
5.0
same electric charge, otherwise antagonistic systems
may result causing mutual precipitation of the
emulsifying agents. ~ L
Uses in Ore Dressing a~
Among the successful applications of Aerosol
Wetting Agents in ore dressing problems may be
mentioned the following:
1. The Aerosol Reagents have found use as 0
a.
gangue dispersants in the flotation of metallic CD~
oxide ores. It has been found that the insoluble
1
 content of metallic oxide flotation concen-
trates can be materially reduced by spraying
the froth on the cleaners with a dilute solution
of Aerosol OT. The quantity of Aerosol neces-
sary to effect marked insoluble reduction is
very small. A few hundredths of a pound per
ton of ore will suffice.
2. In the flotation of certain types of non-suiphide
minerals, particularly scheelite, Aerosol OT
or Aerosol 18 are valuable secondary pro.
moters and froth modifiers. By their use it is
possible to secure the desired lacey type of
froth which is indicative of selectivity when
employing a fatty acid type promoter.
3. Due to the penetrating and dispersing effect of
the Aerosol Reagents, they have been found
useful in the breaking up of small lumps of
slimes. One cyanidation plant treating accu
mulated dump material increased gold ex-
traction with a small amount of Aerosol by
virtue of the fact that the lumps of slime were
broken up, thus allowing cyanide solution to
penetrate thoroughly.
4. In plants employing plate amalgamation, a
small amount of Aerosol aids materially in
the cleaning of amalgamation plates, replac-
[14
ing cyanide and caustic for this purpose. The
mercury stays clean and has less tendency to
flour.
5. Some cyanide plants have found that the use
of a small amount of Aerosol in spray water
on filters increases the rate of filtration and
improves the efficiency of the water wash, thus
decreasing the loss of soluble precious metals.
6. The use of Aerosol in certain cyanide plants
has resulted in noticeable increase in the speed
with which solutions can be aerated and
de-aerated.
7. In gravity concentration, the use of a small
amount of Aerosol in pulps fed to jigs and
tables has resulted in improved efficiency. This
effect is partially due to improved wetting of
the minerals, partially to dispersion of the
slime, and less tendency for skin flotation of
valuable minerals.
8. Solutions of gums, gelatin, dextrin, starch,
etc., are sometimes not capable of properly
spreading over surfaces and Aerosol UT is
often able to make them spread properly.
For detailed information on Aerosol Wetting
Agents, a separate publication is available upon
request.
:i
 FJIOTIIERS
Production of a persistent froth of desired selectivity and durability is of prime importance in successful
flotation. In this regard, it is to be noted that homogeneous liquids do not froth, only aqueous solutions froth
appreciably. Frothing takes place when air is bubbled through a liquid if the air-liquid surface tension is
capable of a small but measurable rapid change. A good frothing agent must be capable of passing readily
into the interface between water and air, so that it must be partly water-repellent and partly water-soluble.
In other words, it must he heteropolari.e., possess polar and non-polar groups.
In this regard, polar, water-insoluble saturated hydrocarbons, such as kerosene, give no froth. Unsatu-
rated hydrocarbons give a light froth because they are non-polar. Organic compounds such as pine oil,
alcohols, phenols, and certain fatty acids give appreciable froth because they contain both polar and non-polar
groups. In these latter type compounds, one part of the molecule has an affinity for water and the other has an
affinity for air, or conversely, an aversion to water.
From the above considerations, it follows that in order to be effective, frothers must not be too soluble or
too insoluble. In addition, to insure selectivity in flotation, frothers must not ionize appreciably.
Commonly used frothers in modern flotation practice include pine oil; Frother 52; Frother 60; cresylic
acid; higher alcohols such as Frother B-23; and the like. A class of reagents known as Froth Stiffeners are
used to impart greater stability to the froth in certain instances. Coal tar creosotes, such as Barrett No. 4
and No. 634; wood creosotes; and Reagent 712 are typical of this class of reagents.

Pine Oil Properties:

Pine oil is a widely used frothing agent obtained Color Straw yellow to dark brown
by steam distillation of stumps of long leaf and Specific Gravity 1.011.04
other southern pines and redistilled to a close-cut Viscosity Similar to olive oil.
fraction, with an initial boiling point of about
290Fto 350Fand an end point of about 370F Uses: 0
5..
to 430F. Cresylic acid tends to produce a somewhat more 0

brittle froth than pine oil and, on some ores, it aids

Properties: selectivity. It has some promoting effect for certain
Color Light yellow suiphides, particularly lead and copper suiphides.
Specific Gravity 0.92 to 0.94
~1o
Viscosity 72 seconds Saybolt at 25C a.

Flash Point 168F

Frother B-23 0
P.
5. a.
Freezing Point 8C (approximately)
Frother B-23 is the most widely used member of
the group of higher molecular weight mixtures of
Uses:
primary and secondary aliphatic alcohols for the
Produces a froth of medium body and good vol- C,

ume. It has practically no collecting power for most flotation of both sulphide and non-suiphide ores 0 ~

a
sulphide and non-metallic minerals. Exceptions are when a selective, fine textured froth is desired. The
P
graphite, talc, sulphur, molybdenite and coal which froth produced by Frother B-23 is usually more 5.01
are to a considerable extent flotable with pine oil brittle and has less carrying power than the more
alone. commonly used frothing agents: pine oil and
Pine oil produces a somewhat tougher and more cresylic acid.
persistent froth than cresylic acid or the higher Properties:
alcohols. Color Water White
Specific Gravity 0.84 at 60F

Cresylic Acid Approximate Boiling Range 302F

Cresylic acid is another widely used frother, 320F

especially in the flotation of lead ores. It is obtained - Viscosity Saybolt
Approximately 31
by distillation of coal tar and subsequent treatment seconds at 100F
of the distillate; or it may be obtained by treatment Uses:
of cracked petroleum distillates. - A selective frother, particularly applicable in
Its frothing power is related to its distillation both sulphide and non-metallic mineral flotation
boiling range. Usually, the higher boiling range where a somewhat tender and less persistent, fine
acids are better frothers. grained, froth is an advantage.

1 15]

- r
Frother 52 Barrett No. 4, and No. 634
Frother 52 is one of a group of synthetic frothers These are coal tar creosote oils.
developed by Cyanamid research to meet needs for Properties:
a product having frothing characteristics about mid-
way between pine oil and Frother B-23. Color Black
Specific Gravity 1.031.13
Properties: Viscosity Slightly more viscous than
Color Dark reddish brown cresylic acid; Barrett No. 634 more vis-
Specific Gravity 0.850
cous than Barrett No. 4.
Viscosity Similar to pine oil
Odor Characteristic tarry odor.
Solubihity Insoluble in water.

Use:
Frother 52 finds use as a substitute for pine oil in Uses:
cases where a slightly more brittle type of froth is Formerly used as primary frothers and collectors.
an advantage. In the case of certain minerals, such Now used either as supplementary promoters and
as molybdenite, coal and sulphur it has more collect- frothers or as froth modifiers to stiffen froth pro-
ing power than pine oil. duced by pine oil and cresylic acid. Barrett No. 4
finds more general application for this purpose.
Special Use: Barrett No. 634 produces a stiffer and more per.
Particularly adapted to the flotation of molyb- sistent froth.
denite.

Frother 58
Reagent 712
Frother 58, like Frother 52, is a synthetic frother
and is similar in composition and characteristics to A frother suitable for the flotation of suiphide,
the latter. oxidized, and non-metallic ores.
Properties: Properties:
Color Dark reddish brown Color Clear amber to dark brown
Specific Gravity 0.865 Odor Odor of ammonia
Viscosity Similar to Frother 52 Specific Gravity 0.89 at 25C
Use: Viscosity Liquid at room temperatures,
Frother 58 finds use as a substitute for pine oil. but tends to become viscous at lower tern-
It tends to produce a tougher froth than that obtained peratures.
with Frother 52. Stability Water solutions of Reagent 712
tend to decompose slowly on standing and,
Frother 60 therefore, should be freshly prepared
each day for use in flotation. The water
This is another member of the group of synthetic solutions are also decomposed by acids
frothers developed by Cyanamid for special pur. and the reagent, therefore, should not he
poses. used in strongly acid puips. -

Properties: Reagent 712 is inflammable and should

Color Light straw yellow be stored away from open flames. Like-
Specific Gravity 0.83 wise, in opening up the drums, care
Viscosity Smiliar to Frother B-23 should be taken to keep open flames away.
Use: The water solutions of Reagent 712 are
The frother is used for the production of a froth not inflammable.
which is more brittle than that formed by pine oil The development of a light pressure in
or cresylic acid. closed drums containing Reagent 712,
It finds particular application for the flotation of due to a rise in temperature, is not un-
non-metallic minerals such as graphite and coal. usual and does not indicate decomposi-
It is recommended for the flotation of suiphide tion.
minerals in high lime circuits and where a less Solubility Readily and completely solu-
persistent froth is required. ble in water to give a clear or nearly clear
Frother 60 may be used alone, or with pine oil, amber-colored solution, 510% solution
cresylic acid, liquid Aerofloats, or other frothers. recommended.

[16]
Uses:
Reagent 712 is essentially a frother with certain
promoter characteristics that make it a valuable
secondary promoter in the flotation of base metal
and precious metal ores as well as non.metallic ores
and industrial waste solutions. Due to its ready solu-
hility in water, it may be fed anywhere in the flota-
tion circuit.
Special Applications:
Recommended for operations requiring a tough
froth in order to recover locked mineral particles in
middlings.
This reagent should be investigated wherever the
problem is to increase the recovery of desired values
without emphasis on grade of concentrate. This re-
agent should also be investigated in all cases where
difficulty is experienced in producing a sufficient
volume of froth of desired type.
[17]
In general, this reagent should be an effective
substitute for more expensive promoters or frothers
when it is desired to recover refractory-floating
material. Reagent 712 is less selective than some
other frothers. When treating finely ground material,
it has a tendency to pull gangue slimes. Hence, the
use of reduced quantities should be investigated
should it be found that Reagent 712 produces a low
grade concentrate.
Plants where Reagent 712 is used in combination
with other frothers, such as pine oil, report improved
results from the standpoint of reduction in total
amount of frother required, improved grade of con-
centrates, better recovery of mineral, easier opera-
tionparticularly in the cleaning circuit.
In these plants it has been found that Reagent
712 can advantageously be admixed with another
frother, such as pine oil, thus simplifying the feed-
ing arrangement.
a.-
I;
C
i.J ~
45 -
~8u~
00,
P
~.D
pP.
ii
FT
 MDIIIFYIXB ADENTS
Reagents which are used to modify the normal floatability of minerals with promoters and frothers are
broadly designated Modifying Agents. This class of reagent is conveniently subdivided into three general
groups:
(a) Regulating and dispersing agents.
(b) Activating agents.
(c) Depressing agents.
(a) REIULATINB AtI1~NTS
The function of the reagents included in this group is to control the alkalinity of the pulp, also to counter-
act interfering effects of detrimental slimes, colloids, and soluble salts.
In modern froth flotation, alkaline circuits are used almost exclusively for the treatment of suiphide ores
and most non-metallic ores as well. For any particular ore, there is an optimum range of pH (hydrogen-ion
concentration) in which optimum results are obtainable. Therefore, proper control of this alkalinity is of
prime importance. Reagents commonly used to obtain desired alkalinity are lime and soda ash, which increase
the alkalinity, or sulphuric acid which decreases the alkalinity.
Caustic soda is occasionally used as an alkalinity regulator.
Less commonly used than lime and soda ash are certain slime regulating agents such as sodium silicate,
caustic soda, various phosphates, and the like. These reagents are used to aid selectivity by exerting a dis-
persing action on the slimes and colloids.

Lime
A widely used alkalinity regulator. The quantity
used should be the minimum required since, in ex-
cessive amounts, it has a depressing action on many
sulphide minerals and gold.
Properties:
Solubility
Maximum solubility of pure
lime is 2.6 lbs. per ton water or 1.3 grams
per liter.
Purity Varies from 99% available CaO
to less than 50% depending on source of
limestone. Percent CaO should be deter-
mined by analysis.
Feeding of this material requires special com-
ment. The ideal way is to feed it as a slurry or
milk of lime containing about 20% of finely
ground lime in 80% water. This slurry is made by
passing the crushed burnt rock through a small ball
or pebble mill operating with a classifier. The classi-
fier can be omitted if the mill is large enough and
the crushed material is supplied to the mill at a
regular rate.
Another satisfactory way, particularly if fairly
high grade lime is available, is to slurry it in a tank
with a stirrer into which regulated quantities of lime
and of water are fed at constant rates.
Still another way is to feed the crushed lime dry
by means of a slowly moving belt on which a uni-
form quantity of lime is distributed either mechan-
ically or by hand. In this case, the lime must always
be fed to the grinding mill which at times may he
undesirable.
Lime exerts a flocculating effect while soda ash
acts as a dispersant for ore slimes. Lime is, in most
instances, cheaper than soda ash and is more widely
used for the treatment of sulphide ores, particularly
copper and zinc ores. Soda ash is preferred for the
treatment of lead suiphide ores and precious metal
ores because lime tends to depress galena and free
gold and must be more carefully controlled than
soda ash.
Besides being an alkalinit~regulator, lime is a
depressor for pyrite and is commonly used for that
purpose. If used in excessive quantities, lime also
tends to depress many other sulphide minerals.
Soda Ash (Sodium Carbonate)
A widely used alkalinity regulator in the selective
flotation of lead-zinc ores. Lime has largely replaced
soda ash due to its lower cost and greater availabil-
ity. Sodium hydroxide is occasionally used in place
of soda ash in lead-zinc flotation.
Soda ash is sometimes very effective in improving
both grade and recovery of minerals, particularly in
the presence of deleterious gangue slimes. Since this
reagent has a dispersing action, difficulty is expe-
rienced at times in thickening and filtering flotation
concentrates and tailings. This may be overcome by
adding a flocculating agent such as lime or alum to
the pulp before it enters the thickener.
Soda ash assists the flotation of arsenopyrite and
pyrite and is a valuable addition agent where a bulk,
non-selective sulphide mineral float is desired.

[18 :i
Sodium Silicate
This reagent is commonly used to disperse
siliceous and iron oxide slimes. It is also a de-
pressant for siliceous gangue minerals in suiphide
and non-metallic flotation. It is usually used in the
form of a syrupy liquid comprising an aqueous solu-
tion containing hydrates of salts of Na20 and Si02
with a silica to soda ratio between 1 and 4. Ratios of
2 or 3 are preferred, and this mixture is known as
water glass. Some operators prefer to buy one of
the several varieties of dry sodium silicate available
and make up the liquid reagent using steam or hot
water. This yields a product containing about 40%
sodium silicate which may be further diluted as
desired.
Sodium silicate may be added at practically any
point in the flotation circuit. In the case of silver ores
it is often added in the cleaner circuit.
Since sodium silicate exerts a dispersing action,
concentrates produced in the presence of this re-
agent are sometimes difficult to thicken and filter.
In such cases the addition of a flocculating agent
such as lime, sulphuric acid or alum may be used
to good effect.
Sodium silicate is usually fed to flotation in the
form of a 5%10% aqueous solution. The use of
hot water hastens the dissolution of sodium silicate.
Excess sodium silicate in a flotation circuit makes
a brittle froth and tends to lower the recovery of
(ii) ACTIVATING AGENTS
most minerals. This reagent also tends to prevent
precipitation of calcium soaps from hard waters.
Sulphuric Acid
Sulphuric acid is rarely used in the flotation of
suiphide ores, but some operators find this reagent
helpful when it is desired to recover a pyrite con-
centrate, usually after it has been depressed with
cyanide or lime while other sulphide minerals are
floated away from it.
Sulphuric acid is finding increasing use in con-
nection with the flotation of certain non-metallic and
metallic oxide ores. For example, in the flotation of
iron oxides and in the flotation of garnet with Re-
agents of the 800 Series as promoters, where acid
is indispensable in the conditioning step, sulphuric
acid is the reagent usually employed.
This reagent may be conveniently pumped and
fed to flotation in small amounts by means of the
several varieties of acid-proof plunger pumps avail-
able on tile market. The Clarkson Reagent feeder
marketed by Cyanamid is also well-suited to dis.
pensing sulphuric acid in small amounts.
Phosphates
Certain alkali phosphates, particularly tetra-
sodium pyrophosphate and tn-sodium phosphate are
sometimes used as dispersants in the flotation of
slimy ores. These reagents are effective in the flota-
tion of ores containing interfering iron oxide slimes.
~so
a.

Reagents of this group are used to assist the flotation of certain minerals that are normally hard to float
with promoters and frothers only. The outstanding example of this is the use of copper sulphate to float
sphalerite and marmatite, also iron-sulphides and arsenopyrite. Other examples include the use of hydrogen
suiphide or sodium sulphide to film lead sulphate and carbonate and copper carbonate minerals; the use of 0 i~

hydrofluoric acid to assist the flotation of feldspar with a cationic type promoter; the use of lead nitrate for
assisting the flotation of various non-metallic minerals with anionic type promoters of the fatty acid type; and
aluminum chloride for assisting the flotation of mica with cationic type promoters.

Copper Sulphate ture. A better way of feeding copper sulphate is to

This reagent is universally used for the activation make up a solution of definite strength, say 5%, and 0
~D -
of sphalerite; in fact, sphalerite will not readily feed the solution by means of a cup type feeder pp.
0
-

respond to flotation in the absence of this reagent. It
is also used to reactivate minerals which have been
depressed by the use of cyanide, such as sphalerite,
chalcopyrite and pyrite.
A solution of copper sulphate cannot be fed from
an iron vessel. It is often fed by placing the copper
sulphate crystals in a wooden box or barrel with
perforated bottom over which a measured quantity
of water is run to form a saturated solution. This
made of wood or copper. Copper sulphate also may
be fed dry by means of a slowly moving belt or any
other suitable dry reagent feeder.
Sodium Suiphide
This reagent is used for the sulphidization of
oxidized lead and copper ores, more especially lead
ores. The accurate regulation of the quantity is in- p1~
dispensable for tile best use of this reagent, as in 00

method has the disadvantage that the solubility of excessive amounts it is a strong general depressant,
copper sulphate varies considerably with tempera. particularly of suiphide silver minerals, which are

[19]
often associated with lead and copper in ores. In the
flotation of oxidized lead ores it is usually advisable
to float the silver sulphide minerals prior to the
addition of sodium sulphide and subsequently to
suiphidize and refloat. This may be accomplished by
the staged addition of sodium sulphide to each cell
in the second flotation circuit.
The time of conditioning with sodium sulphide is
roughly proportional to the amount of the reagent
which is added at any one point in the circuit. There-
fore, more rapid effect is obtained with addition of
small quantities at several points throughout the
circuit.
However, in the case of some ores, better results
are reportedly obtained when the bulk of the sodium
sulphide is added to the pulp in a conditioner which
provides at least three minutes contact prior to
flotation.
The presence of an excessive amount of sodium
suiphide in a flotation pulp is decidedly detrimental,
and it is, therefore, necessary to determine period-
ically the amount of sodium sulphide which is re-
quired for best results. This can be easily done in
the following manner:
Fill a one liter bottle half full of mill water. Add 400
grams of ore ground to flotation size and then add 5
cc. of 1% solution of sodium sulphide and fill the
bottle to the top with mill water. Rotate the bottle
slowly either by hand or mechanically for 10 min-
utes. Allow to settle for one minute and filter out a
small part of supernatant liquid. Add a few ccs. of
dilute solution of lead acetate to the filtered portion.
Black coloration indicates excess of sodium sulphide,
in which case, the experiment should be repeated with
a smaller amount of sodium suiphide. If the black
coloration does not appear, then half the solution is
poured out and a further 5 cc. of 1% Na2S solution is
added. The solution is poured back into the bottle
which is filled to the top with fresh mill water. The
operation is repeated until the black coloration ap-
pears upon the addition of the lead acetate solution to
a filtered portion of the solution. Each 5 cc. of the
solution used represents 200 grams Na2S (0.44 lbs.)
per ton of dry pulp.
Instead of using one bottle and adding successive
portions of Na2S, time may be saved by using sev-
eral bottles and adding different quantities of Na2S to
each bottle. The right quantity of Na2S is indicated
when a faint dark coloration is produced by the addi.
tion of lead acetate solution to a filtered portion of
the solution.
Since the quantity of Na2S necessary may vary from
day to day, or even hour to hour, this control should
be carried out as a routine procedure in the mill.
A qualitative test is extremely simple: A sample of
the pulp at any point of the circuit is allowed to settle
and a filtered portion of the supernatant solution is
tested with lead acetate solution as described above.
In the newer technique of treating oxidized lead
ores, some operations favor the use of copper sul-
phate to control the voluminous, poorly mineralized
froth resulting from any excess addition of sodium
suiphide. Copper sulphate also overcomes any ex-
cessive causticity from the sodium sulphide and in
addition assists the flotation of the suiphidized lead
minerals.

(C) BEPIIESSING AGENTS

Depressing agents assist the separation of one mineral from another, whose flotabilities are closely
similar. Originally, before the development of specific depressants, it was impossible to separate minerals of
one kind from another kind when the normal flotability was closely the same.
The outstanding example of a depressant is the use of Aero Brand Cyanide or sodium cyanide to separate
galena from sphalerite and pyrite; copper sulphides from galena; copper suiphides from pyrite; and nickel
suiphides from copper suiphides.
The discovery by Sheridan and Griswold of the selective depressing qualities of cyanides was one of the
more important advances in the art of flotation in that it solved the problem of treating complex lead-zinc-
iron ores -

Examples of other commonly used depressants and their function are given below.
The 600 Series Reagents developed by Cyanamid Engineers for the selective depression of
graphite, carbonaceous slates, talcose and micaceous minerals.
Reagent 505 for the separation of molybdenite from copper sulphides by selectively depressing
the latter.
Lime for depressing pyrite.
Sodium and calcium sulphites and hyposulphites for depressing pyrite and sphalerite.
Zinc sulphate as an aid to cyanides for depressing sphalenite.
Chromates for depressing galena.
Permanganates for depressing pyrrhotite and pyrite in the presence of arsenopyrite (another
development by Cyanamid Engineers).

[20]
 Quebracho and tannic acid for depressing calcite and dolomite when floating fluorite or scheelite
or certain other non-suiphide ores with fatty acids.
Sodium silicate for depressing quartz.
Sulphuric acid for depressing quartz, presumably by preventing the resurfacing of quartz by metal
ions by suppression of ionization of the silicic acid at the quartz surface.
Starch and glue for depressing mica, talc and sulphur.
Ferro and fern cyanides for separating cobalt-nickel sulphides from copper suiphides.
Caustic soda for depression of stibnite.

Cyanides Aero Brand Cyanide may be fed dry by means of

The discovery of the depressing action of cyanide
on various minerals marked an epoch in the history
of flotation and the birth of the selective flotation of
complex lead-zinc ores.
The alkaline cyanides are strong depressants of
pyrite, arsenopyrite and spbalerite and to a lesser
extent of chalcopyrite, enargite, bornite and most
other sulphide minerals with the exception of galena
and chalcocite. Careful control of the amount used
is, therefore, essential. Time required is also im-
portant, the optimum may range from a few min-
utes to as long as an hour.
Aero Brand Cyanide and Sodium Cyanide are the
commonly used depressants in selective flotation.
Aero Brand Cyanide
Aero Brand Cyanide is the commercial form of
calcium cyanide. This product contains the equiva-
lent of about 50 percent sodium cyanide. The re-
mainder consists mainly of common salt and lime.
It is produced in the form of black-colored flakes,
the dark color being due to a small amount of
graphitic carbon derived from the cyanamid, tile
principal raw material used in its manufacture.
Because of its flaky nature, and the presence of
a suitable feeder, such as marketed by the American
Cyanamid Company, to any point in the grinding or
flotation circuit where good conditions of agitation
and mixing with the pulp occur. Many operations
prefer to make up 5% to 10% aqueous solutions of
this cyanide for easier control in feeding of small
quantities.
Sodium Cyanide
Sodium cyanide for flotation is usually marketed
in the form of one ounce truncated cone-shaped pel-
lets. In this form the pellets are readily soluble to
produce aqueous solutions of desired strength
usually about 10%.
In the selective flotation of lead-zinc amid copper
ores, where sufficient conditioning time is not avail-
able, it is common practice to add the cyanide, in
dilute solution, to the ball mill. In the case of some
ores, zinc sulphate is added at the same point as the
cyanide, usually in the ratio of two or three parts of
ZnSO4 to one part of NaCN equivalent.
In the case of lead-zinc and silver ores, it is often
used in the cleaner circuit for depressing pyrite.
This point of addition has the advantage that the
effect of small quantities is more pronounced. The 0 F

free lime, Aero Brand Cyanide differs from other
grades of cyanide. Due to the relatively large sur-
face exposed by the flakes it is necessary to protect
them from moisture and moist atmosphere to an
even greater extent than is required in the case of
sodium cyanide. It is therefore recommended that
the drums be opened only as used and the cover re-
placed tightly to protect any material remaining in
the drum.
amount can be closely controlled by panning the
p P.~-
concentrates and the cleaner tailings.
Cyanide is also effective in the separation of
galena and chalcopyrite when these minerals occur
~
together in a rougher concentrate. The chalcopyrite
is depressed while the galena is floated. pta
The depressing effect of cyanide is readily over- p P.
E -F
come by using copper sulphate as described under
Copper Sulphate.

ThH GUll Scries Jleaijents a

The 600 Series Reagents were originally developed by Cyanamids Mineral Dressing Laboratory for
the depression of carbonaceous gangue in the flotation of gold ores where carbonaceous material occurs in the
auriferous concentrates to such a degree that cyanidation of these concentrates was impossible, due to the
precipitating action of the carbonaceous gangiie diluent. Following laboratory tests, several of these reagents 0 -

were tested on a mill scale, first on the Mother Lode in California and later in other districts of the world p.
00 -

where ores containing carbonaceous gangue occur.

[21]
 The widespread use in milling operations have demonstrated conclusively that a large portion of the
carbonaceous and certain other flotable gangue constituents of ores may be depressed by the use of the 600
Series Reagents. In some cases, the ratio of concentration has been more than doubled by the elimination of
gangue. This in turn has resulted in a marked reduction in the moisture content of concentrates and has
markedly improved the thickening and filtration. -

Simultaneously with an improvement in ratio of concentration, many plants have effected increased
recovery with reduced reagent consumption as a result of the better control of the gangue minerals.
Experience in mills in various districts of the world where carbonaceous ores occur, has shown that
Reagents 633, 637, 639 and 645 are most effective for the depression of carbonaceous gangue.
Although the 600 Series Reagents were originally developed as depressants for carbonaceous gangue,
later work has shown that other gangue constituents, such as talcose and sericitic minerals, are also depressed
under certain conditions by certain members of this group, either alone or in combination with other
depressants. For example, good results have been obtained using Reagent 610 alone or in combination with
Reagent 633 in depressing talc, sericite, and certain other foliated ferro magnesian silicate minerals.
Along with their ability to depress gangue constituents in flotation, certain of the 600 Series Reagents
act as gangue dispersants and due to this property, they have found application in classification, and particu-
larly in sand-slime separation where dispersion of the slime results in a more complete separation of slime
from sand constituents of ores. For this purpose, Reagents 610, 651, and 653 have been found particularly
useful.
The most recent application of this series of reagents has been to depress pyrite and slimy gangue where
the copper mineral in an ore is sensitive to cyanide. Reagent 610 is now being used on a mill scale for this
purpose, having demonstrated its ability to produce a marked increase in the grade of copper concentrates
from cyanide-sensitive ores with no sacrifice of copper recovery. Filter-cake moisture content has also been
substantially reduced.
The series comprises the following reagents:
Reagent 610 Reagent 637 Reagent 651
Reagent 633 Reagent 639 Reagent 653
Reagent 645
Color -

All of the above reagents, light brown to dark gray in color, give dark colored solutions of varying shades.
Texture
These reagents are dry, finely powdered materials. They are slightly hygroscopic and should, therefore,
be stored in air-tight containers when not in use.
Solubility
All of the 600 Series Reagents are water soluble. It is recommended that they be fed to flotation cir-
cuits in the form of 2 to 5% solutions.
Stability
These reagents are stable when stored in air-tight containers. Water solutions of these reagents tend to
decompose slowly after standing for several days. It is, therefore, recommended that solutions be prepared
daily.
Frothing Characteristics
On some ores, certain of these reagents have a tendency to froth. This has been especially noted in the
case of Reagent 633 and to a lesser degree in the case of Reagents 637 and 639. When these reagents are used
in ordinary amounts, that is up to 0.5 pounds per ton of flotation feed, the volume of froth is usually not
objectionable. Normally, the slight frothing characteristic of these reagents is an advantage, since it tends to
reduce the quantity of frothing reagent required in the circuit. In some cases, a reduction of 50% in frother
has been noted in actual practice.
Effect on Cyanidation
The results of a considerable number of tests run in the Cyanamid MineralDressing Laboratory indicate
that, when added to an ore pulp in amounts up to as high as 5.0 pounds per ton of ore, none of these reagents
[22 J
has any appreciable effect on gold extraction or consumption of lime and cyanide during cyanidatiorm.
In the cyanidation of silver-bearing ores, laboratory test work has shown indications that when used in
large amounts, Reagent 610 tends to retard extraction to some extent. On the other hand, Reagents 637 and
645 are without adverse effect.
Effect on Suiphides
Laboratory studies on pure minerals with the various members of the 600 Series of reagents indicate
that in quantities of about 1.0 pound per ton Reagent 610 has a pronounced depressing effect on chalcocite,
sphalerite, cobaltite, niccolite and realgar, and some depressing effect on minerals such as chalcocite, pyrrho.
tite, and arsenopyrIte.
Other laboratory tests indicate that Reagents 633, 637, 639 and 645 exert a depressing effect on a num-
ber of suiphides, particularly arsenic and antimony sulphide minerals when used in an amount of about 1.0
pound per ton of mineral.
In commercial practice, the depressing effect of these reagents on sulphide minerals will depend on the
excess used over that required to depress the carbonaceous or other type of gangue minerals associated with
the suiphides.
Effect of 600 Series Reagents on Consumption of Other Flotation Reagents
Since carbonaceous gangue slimes are very active absorbents of flotation reagents, particularly frothers,
it is natural to expect that tile 600 Series Reagents will reduce the quantity of other reagents necessary.
This has actually been noted in plants using the 600 Series Reagents. In fact, in some operations, a marked
reduction in the quantity of frother has been found possible.
Method of Application
The 600 Series Reagents are most effective when added as dilute solutions and prior to the addition
of frothers and promoters. Quick conditioning of the reagents, as in a pump, is more effective than slow con-
ditioning in the ordinary agitator. Better dispersion of the reagents is obtained in circuits employing mechani-
cal flotation machines.
The common practice in mills employing the 600 Series Reagents is to feed from 5060% to the head
of the rougher circuit and the remainder to the middling circuit or to the cleaning circuit. In mills employing
separate roughing and cleaning circuits, all of the reagent is often added to the cleaning circuit.
In testing the 600 Series Reagents on an ore for the first time, it is recommended that they he added
to various points in the circuit and in various amounts in order to determine the best point or points of addition
for optimum metallurgy.
Amounts of 600 Series Reagents Required
The quantity of 600 Series Reagents required will, of course, vary with the character of the ore and
the quantity of carbonaceous and other gangue slimes present. The average quantity required in practice is
usually not over 0.4 pounds per ton of original feed, but in some cases good results are obtained with as little
as 0.1 pounds per ton.
i~1 urrin ii ,, ri
- me iuu ~ieries neaijents F
Reagent 505 Properties: ~. ~

This member of the 500 Series of Flotation
Reagents is representative of a class of newly de-
veloped depressants for use in processes involving
selective separation of sulphide minerals. Reagent
505, when used in optimum amount, has been found
Reagent 505 is a greenish-yellow colored powder
which reacts vigorously with water with liberation of
heat. The reaction must be controlled, otherwise
undesirable by-products are formed which render
the reagent less effective. In addition, if the tempera. ~. ~

to be a specific depressant for certain sulphides,

thus permitting their separation from other sul-
phides. Under certain conditions, the reagent is a so
ture of reaction is not controlled when Reagent 505
is slurried with water, the operation presents a
hazard.
_______
g

capable of selectively depressing all suiphides, thus

permitting their separation from such non-suiphide Solubility:
minerals as talc, and graphite. Reagent 505 forms a slurry when added to water.

[23]
A concentration of 6% has been found convenient
for laboratory use, and a 10% slurry may be pre-
pared for commercial use.
Preparation for use in flotation:
Reagent 505 should be stored in water-tight closed
containers with tightly-fitting tops when not in use.
Since a rapid reaction takes place on adding
Reagent 505 to water, causing vigorous boiling if
uncontrolled, the following method is recommended
for preparing a 6% slurry for laboratory use.
1. Weigh out 12 grams of Reagent 505.
2. Have 200 cc. of warm water (70C) avail-
able.
3. Add, with vigorous stirring, 12 grams of the
reagent to 50 cc. of the warm water (70C).
Reaction will be immediate and may be con-
trolled by dilution with the remaining 150 cc.
of water (70C). For this purpose the reac-
tion mixture is gradually diluted with the
water (70C) so as to maintain the tempera-
ture below 80C, and stirring continued dur-
ing these operations.
4. Stirring should he continued for about 15
minutes, or until the original solids have re-
acted to form the slurry. The final product
should be yellow in color. A deep green color
f 24]
usually results if reaction temperatures are
allowed to go too high (see 3 above).
This slurry is stable and may be stored in a stop-
pered bottle for considerable time. It should be
thoroughly shaken before each use.
Larger scale hatches have been prepared in a mix-
ing tank equipped with a mechanical mixer. A 10%
slurry of Reagent 505 was made by adding 121/2
pounds of the latter to 125 pounds of water at 25C
while the mixer was in operation. The temperature
rose to 65C in 15 minutes and then decreased.
Stirring was continued for 60 minutes. A sample of
the slurry drawn off after 30 minutes of stirring
reacted satisfactorily in flotation.
It is recommended that prospective users of Re-
agent 505 consult with Cyanamids Field Repre-
sentatives or Mineral Dressing Laboratory for fur-
ther details in regard to the preparation of this
depressant for mill scale use.
Use:
Reagent 505 is particularly effective in the sep-
aration of molybdenite from copper suiphides when
it acts as a powerful and selective depressant for the
latter. This reagent has also shown promise in cer-
tain other separations, such as copper suiphides
from galena; gold-bearing pyrite from carbonaceous
material; lead, zinc, and iron sulphides from talc,
etc.
 BRIEF OIJTLII~E OF REABENT PRACTICE
FUR VARIOUS TYPES OF ORES
Gold Ores - Pine oil and cresylic acid are commonly used
In general; gold ores may be divided into three
principal classes as follows:
1. Gold ores in which oxidation of the suiphides
has progressed to the point where practically
all of the gold is free, that is, liberated. This
class of ore is very low in sulphides.
2. Gold ores in which a portion of the gold occurs
in the liberation form, either in the metallic
form or as a tehluride, the remainder being
associated with suiphides, such as pyrite. The
majority of gold ores belong to this class.
3. Ores which contain their major value in the
form of base metals such as lead, zinc, and
copper. Usually these ores are referred to as
base metal ores, but, in certain cases, sufficient
gold may be present so that the disposition of
the gold in the ore dressing flow scheme may
have an important bearing on the reagent prac-
tice.
In the flotation of gold ores falling into Classes I
and 2, a reagent combination consisting of Reagent
301 and Aerofloat Flotation Reagent 208 as pro-
moters, together with Aerofloat 15 or 25 as a frother,
is widely used. The amounts of these various re-
agents depend on the characteristics of the ore but
will usually be in the neighborhood of 005-0.10
lbs. each of Reagents 301 and 208 and from 0.05 to
0.15 of Aerofloat 15, depending on the frothing
requirements of the particular ore. The function of
the Aerofloat Flotation Reagent 208 is to promote
the flotation of the liberated metallic gold.
Another favored reagent combination for gold
ores of the first two classes referred to above com-
prises Reagent 404 and Aerofloat Flotation Reagent
242. Reagent 404 acts as the principal promoter
while Reagent 242 functions as a frother as well as
a promoter. - When arsenopyrite is present in an appreciable
For the flotation of pyrite, arsenopyrite, pyrrho-
tite, and any other suiphides with which gold is likely
to be associated, Reagent 301 is a powerful and
non-selective promoter. It is particularly effective
in the flotation of partially tarnished suiphides.
Amyl Xanthate is also a good promoter for this type
of flotation and occasionally is used in combination
with Reagent 208.
[25]
frothers, either alone or in combination with Aero-
float 15. However, many operations report improved
results using a frother combination comprising Re-
agent 242 and Frother B.23. The usual proportion
of these two reagents is three parts of Aerofloat
Flotation Reagent 242 to one part of Frother B-23,
and it is sometimes preferable to stage-feed them to
the flotation machines. These two reagents are espe-
cially effective on gold ores containing troublesome
gangue slimes When a froth stiffener is required, it
is recommended that such oils as Barrett No. 4 or
No. 634, or a hardwood creosote be used in small
quantities, usually not exceeding a few hundredths
of a pound.
Gold tellurides are usually readily flotable with
Reagent 301 and a frother such as pine oil.
In the flotation of gold ores where a portion of the
gold is liberated, i.e., in the metallic state, the use
of lime circuit should be avoided since in practically
all cases lime is a distinct depressor of gold. Usually
in the treatment of ores of Class 1 and 2, no alka-
linity regulator is necessary but, at times, soda ash
in optimum amount is beneficial in the flotation of
the tarnished iron suiphides.
In general, clean metallic gold minus 65 mesh in
size is readily amenable to flotation with the pre-
viously mentioned reagents. Metallic gold much
coarser than 65 mesh is harder to float and is usually
more satisfactorily recovered by amalgamation or
gravity methods of concentration.
When the flotation feed contains free gold and
only a small quantity of suiphides, as in Class 1, it
is usually desirable to float at a relatively high pulp
density30 to 35% solids. The intense agitation
and aeration imparted by the Fagergren flotation
machine is also of assistance when floating ore of
this class.
amount, and when it is necessary to float this min-
eral, a combination of addition agents consisting of fl q
copper sulphate and soda ash is almost always bene- 1
ficial. Usually from 0.50 to 1.0 lbs. of copper sul-
phate is sufficient. The amount of soda ash will, of
course, depend on the acidity of the ore, but will
usually not exceed 1.3 lbs. per ton. In the case of a
ores belonging to Class 3, it is also advisable to use 4Dm
soda ash instead of lime as the alkalinity regulator.
I
More details concerning the flotation of this type of
ore will be found under Lead-Zinc and Copper
Ores.
Occasionally, gold ores are encountered which
fall partially in Class 1 and partially in Class 2, that
is, the auriferous pyrite is partially oxidized. The
problem then becomes one of floating free gold and
partially oxidized pyrite. Although the free gold is
easily floated by the use of the common reagent com-
bination of Reagents 301 and 208, the partially
oxidized pyrite is always sluggish and requires spe-
cial treatment.
For the flotation of partially oxidized pyrite,
Reagents 404 and 425 have given excellent results.
Usually, better recoveries are obtained if the pulp
is given a conditioning with from 0.5 to as high as
2 pounds of sodium suiphide prior to the addition
of Reagent 404 or Reagent 425. Since sodium sul-
phide is a depressor of free gold, it is recommended
that the free gold be floated first by the use of Re-
agents 301 and 208 and that the partially oxidized
pyrite be floated subsequently by the use of sodium
suiphide arid Reagent 404 or Reagent 425.
At times it may be found necessary to use Re-
agent 301 or amyl xanthate along with the 400
Series Reagents to secure maximum recovery of
the partially oxidized pyrite.
In the treatment of gold ores containing car-
bonaceous gangue, the 600 Series Reagents find
wide application. These products are powerful and
selective depressants for carbonaceous gangue;
Reagents 633, 637, 639 and 645 being particularly
useful. Certain members of the 600 Series Re-
agents are also effective depressants for talcose min-
erals. Reagents 633 and 610, alone or in combina-
tion, are most effective for this purpose.
Silver Ores
Bulk Flotation
When the ore contains only a small quantity of
base metal suiphides (15%) it is often desirable
to make a bulk concentrate of all these suiphides.
For this purposethe reagents listed below frequently
give good results. The quantities given are per ton
of dry ore:
Aerofloat 25 40 to 60 cc. (0.08-0.12 lbs.)
Aerofloat 33 40 to 60 cc. (0.08-0.12 lbs.)
Aerofloat 31 40 to 60 cc. (0.08-0.12 lbs.)
Reagent 301 30 to 50 gins. (0.06-0.10 lbs.)
If suiphides of zinc are present, in addition to
these reagents the use of 20 to 50 gms. (0.04-
0.10 lbs./ton) of Sodium Aerofloat and/or 100-200
gms. (0.20-0.40 lbs./ton) Copper Sulphate would
be helpful.
If, as is so often the case, there is free gold to be
floated, then 15 to 30 gms. (0.03.0.06 lbs./ton) of
Reagent 208 should be tried to replace a part or all
of the Sodium Aerofloat.
If the final concentrate contains an objectionable
amount of barren or low-grade pyrite, the quantity
of Reagent 301 should be reduced, or a less power-
ful xanthate, such as ethyl xanthate, should be tried
in its place.
Another way in which the pyrite content of the
final concentrate may he reduced is by the judicious
use of lime in the primary circuit.
Selective Flotation
In the case of ores containing considerable quan-
tities of barren or low-grade base metal suiphides
(510%) selective flotation may be necessary. This
calls for the use of lime or cyanide, or of cyanide
and zinc sulphate (see Cyanide and Zinc Sul-
phate). Whenever possible, it is better to keep these
depressors, except the lime, out of the primary cir-
cuit and to limit their use to the cleaner circuit. If
excessive amounts are not used, the quantities of
these reagents carried to the head of the circuit with
the middlings will do little or no harm,
In every case the different minerals in the final
concentrate should be separated by panning, and
assayed, so as to determine the silver and gold con-
tent of each one ofthem. From these assays, conclu-
sions may be reached respecting the minerals that
should be included in the precious metal concen-
trate. Panning tests should also be made on various
screen sizes to determine whether finer (or coarser)
grinding would increase profits.
In the case of base metal ores containing silver
and gold, these metals are floated with either the
lead (see Lead) or the copper (see Copper).
When oxidized ores are to be floated, sodium
suiphide should be used as described under
Sodium Sulphide.
Valuable information concerning the flotation of
silver minerals is to be found in two bulletins of the
U. S. Bureau of Mines RI. 3436, February 1939,
and R.I. 3661, September 1942, written by Messrs.
Leaver & Woolf and Leaver, Woolf and Towne, re-
spectively. In general these authors found that the
silver minerals, cerargyrite; argentite; polybasite;
proustite; pyrargyrite; stephanite; and tetrahedrite
responded well to flotation in a natural circuit. Addi-
tion agents such as sodium suiphide, caustic soda,
[26)
starch and lime tended to depress the silver minerals
in varying degree, depending on the type of mineral
and amount added.
Copper Ores
In the flotation of copper ores, the use of a lime
circuit is practically universal, since all copper miii-
erals float more readily in a circuit which has been
made alkaline with lime. The lime alkalinity should
be maintained at a pH between 8.5-12.0. In addition
to increasing the floatability of copper suiphides,
lime acts as a pyrite depressor and, therefore, aids
in the selective flotation of copper suiphides from
pyrite. Improved results are obtained on many ores
when Aero Brand Cyanide or sodium cyanide are
substituted for or used to supplement lime as a de-
pressant. Usually, only a small quantity of the
cyanide is required to accomplish the desired selec-
tive depression of the pyrite.
In connection with the use of lime, it should be
mentioned that lime is a distinct depressor of metal-
lic gold and, therefore, in the treatment of ores in
which an appreciable portion of the gold is lib-
erated, it may be advisable to use soda ash instead
oflime.
Practically all of the Aerofloat reagents and also
the xanthates are excellent promoters of sulphide
copper minerals. Naturally some of these promoters
are more effective than others. In practice, Reagents
325, 343, and amyl xanthate and Reagent 301,
among the xanthates find wide use in suiphide cop-
per flotation. Of the Aerofloat Flotation Reagents,
Reagent 208 and 238 are most effective. Reagent
208 is preferred for chalcocite, bornite, covellite
and other secondary copper suiphides, whereas Re-
agent 238 is preferred for chalcopyrite. The amount
of these reagents will usually not exceed 0.10 pounds
per ton but often a lesser amount than this will give
high recovery of the suiphide copper minerals. For
frothers, steamed-distilled Pine Oil, Cresylic Acid
and Aerofloat 15 are very effective and should be
tried. The amount of these various frothers will, of
course, vary with the requirements of the ore in
question. In general the amount of any frother in a
copper flotation circuit will not exceed 0.20 pounds
per ton.
Oxidized and Metallic Copper Ores
Oxidized copper ores, containing the majority of
the copper in the form of malachite and azurite, are
usually amenable to flotation provided that these
minerals are liberated at ordinary fineness of
grinding. - hence is widely used in the flotation of galena in lead
[27]
Flotation of oxidized copper ores of this type is
usually effected by the use of a fatty acid, such as
oleic acid or Reagent 708, or palmitic or stearic
acids, or the soaps of these acids, in a pulp which has
been well conditioned with soda ash and sodium
silicate. Sufficient soda ash should be added to secure
essentially complete dispersion of the gangue min-
erals which usually occurs at a pH of 8.59.0. The
sodium silicate acts as a depressant for the gangue
minerals and thus aids in the production of high
grade copper concentrate. The fatty acid must be
controlled rather carefully; otherwise low grade
concentrates will result. Usually a frother is not
necessary, since the fatty acid will produce sufficient
froth for satisfactory operation.
An alternate process involves the use of Reagent
425 with or without sodium suiphide. This reagent
combination has given excellent results on ores con-
taining malachite and azurite. The usual procedure
is to add the sodium suiphide and Reagent 425 at
frepient intervals, and in practice it is recom-
mended that the reagents be fed to each cell in the
rougher flotation string. This practice results in
economy of reagents as well as higher ultimate re-
covery and grade of concentrate. -
Copper ores in which the major copper content
occurs in the form ofchrysocolla and other hydrated
silicates of copper have not yielded satisfactory re-
sults by direct flotation methods.
However, good results have been obtained by the
so-called Segregation Process involving heat treat-
ment of the crushed ore in a rotory kiln at about
800C. in the presence of sodium chloride and coke
or charcoal. The copper silicates and carbonates are
reduced to metallic copper in the form of spherules
which enclose finely pulverized gangue particles.
This metallic copper may be readily recovered upon
grinding and flotation with Aerofloat Reagent 208 or
238, alone or in conjunction with Reagent 301.
Metallic copper responds readily to flotation when
ground to 48 mesh and conditioned with an opti-
mum amount of lime; Reagents 208 or 238; a
frother stiffener such as Barrett 4 or Barrett 634;
plus a frother such as pine oil. Sometimes Reagent
825 is useful as a secondary promoter-frotlier.
Lead Ores
In the flotation of ores of galena, in which very
little zinc is present, the use of Aerofloat Flotation
Reagent 25 or 31 is usually sufficient to give both
the necessary promoter and frother requirements. 4,
Aerofloat 31 is the stronger promoter of the two and
I
and lead-zinc ores. If the quantity of Aerofloat 25
or 31 necessary to give the promoter requirements
is not sufficient to give the necessary froth, the use of
Aerofloat 15 or of cresylic acid or pine oil is rec-
ommended. The amount of Aerofloat 25 or 31 neces-
sary to give good lead recovery will usually not
exceed 0.10 pounds per ton and of frother the
amount is usually less, probably in the neighbor-
hood of 0.05 pounds per ton.
For the flotation of lead ore containing partially
tarnished, slow-floating galena, Reagent 404 is
recommended.
On some types of ores the use of a small amount
of Reagent 301 in conjunction with Aerofloat 25 or
Aerofloat 31 may yield better results than can be
obtained with either Reagent 301 or the Aerofloat
Flotation Reagents alone.
Oxidized Lead Ores
Lead ores which are completely oxidized and
which contain the majority of lead in the form ofthe
carbonate, cerussite, are usually amenable to flota-
tion. If the lead sulphate, anglesite, is present, the
overall lead recovery will usually be somewhat
lower due to the fact that anglesite is not as floatable
as cerussite.
Of the various promoters which have been tried
in the flotation of oxidized lead ores, the most effec-
tive are amyl xanthate and Reagent 404. Amyl
xanthate will not float oxidized lead minerals with-
out sodium suiphide. When amy! xanthate is used as
a promoter, the most effective procedure is to add
small quantities of sodium sulphide and amy!
xanthate at frequent intervals, which corresponds in
practiceto the addition ofsodium suiphide and amyl
xanthate to each cell in the rougher circuit.
In the case of some oxidized lead ores, Reagent
404 will effect high recovery of lead carbonate and
to a lesser extent lead sulphate without the use of
sodium sulphide. The usual procedure is to employ
Reagent 404 in combination with a phosphate or
phosphoric acid. The latter should be added to the
grindingcircuit in amounts of2~5pounds per ton,
followed by the staged addition of Reagent 404 in
amounts up to 0.5 pounds total.
In the treatment of oxidized lead ores which con-
tain residual lead and silver suiphides, it is essential
to recover the suiphides by a preliminary flotation
step prior to suiphidizing with sodium suiphide;
otherwise the sodium sulphide will depress these
suiphides and high tailings will result,
Some operators report improved results with the
[28]
following treatment steps applied to oxidized lead
ores:
1. Addition of soda ash to soften mill water by
precipitating calcium, iron and zinc salts.
2. Conditioning of the ground ore pulp with
sodium suiphide for a suitable intervalto
suiphidize the lead minerals.
3. Addition of copper sulphate in a secondary
conditioning step after sulphidizing, in order
to activate the suiphidized lead minerals and
also to overcome the excess causticity from the
sodium sulphide.
4. Flotation of the activated lead minerals with
one of the liquid Aerofloat Flotation Reagents
such as Aerofloat 25, Aerofloat 31 or Aerofloat
33; either alone or in combination with Re-
agent 404 or Reagent 301 or amyl xanthate.
Additional information in regard to the use of
sodium sulphide for the suiphidization of oxidized
base metal ores is to be found under the heading of
Sodium Suiphide.
Zinc Ores
Sphalerite will not float readily in the absence of
copper sulphate. The use of a lime circuit usually
results in more rapid and higher recovery of zinc.
In general, one to two pounds per ton of copper
sulphate in a circuit, to which sufficient lime has been
added to give a pH of between 8.5 and 10.0, give the
proper conditions for rapid and high recovery of
zinc.
Sodium Aerofloat, Sodium Aerofloat B, and Aero.
float Flotation Reagents 213 and 226 are the most
effective zinc promoters. For the flotation of coarse
zinc, Sodium Aerofloat is widely used and should be
tried. Sodium Aerofloat B exhibits a greater ten-
dency forthe flotation ofslimed sphalerite and often
is used in conjunction with Sodium Aerofloat.
Aerofloat Flotation Reagents 213 and 226 are
also active zinc promoters and may at times be effec-
tive in somewhat smaller amounts than the first two
Aerolloat Reagents mentioned. In general, it may be
stated that the consumption of any of these Aerofloat
Flotation Reagents will vary between 0.05 and 0.20
pounds.
Sodium Aerofloat and Sodium Aerofloat B are
particularly useful in the flotation of zinc suiphides
associated with a large amount of iron suiphides.
Hence, their strong, selective promoter characteris-
tics are particularly useful in securing maximum
recovery ofzinc in a high grade concentrate.
 Any of the common frothing agents, such as
cresylic acid, pine oil, Frothers 52 and 60 or Aero-
float 15, will work very effectively with the above-
mentioned zinc promoters. The amounts of these
frothers will, of course, vary with the requirements
of the ore and will usually not exceed 0.20 pounds
per ton.
Occasionally, it is necessary to heat the zinc flota-
tion feed prior to conditioning and rougher flotation
in order to secure good recovery, this step being par-
ticularly necessary in cold weather operation in cer-
tain sections of the world. However, some operators
have found it possible to dispense with heating dur-
ing winter months and secure equal or even better
results with cold puips when copper ammonium siil-
phate is substituted for copper sulphate.
Lead-Zinc Ores
Most lead-zinc ores belong to the class known as
complex ores and contain galena, sphalerite,
pyrite with minor amounts of copper sulphides such
as chalcopyrite or chalcocite in a siliceous lime
gangue. At times, liberated gold may be present;
also tetrahedrite, tennantite and the sulpharsenides
and sulphantimonides of silver.
Formerly soda ash was almost universally used
as the alkalinity regulator in the flotation of this
class of ore. More recently lime has found favor and
is now used in many lead-zinc mills. The amount of
lime or soda ash needed will, of course, vary with the
acidity of the ore. Usually from one to three pounds
of soda ash will be sufficient. Lime must be used
cautiously since lime is a depressor of some sulphide
minerals particularly of galena and pyrite. As pre-
viously mentioned, lime is also a strong depressant
of liberated gold. Usually the amount of lime neces-
sary will be in the neighborhood of 1 to 2 pounds of
CaO equivalent per ton of ore.
Cyanide is almost universally used as the de-
pressor of sphalerite and pyrite during the flotation
of galena. The amount used will not usually exceed
0.10-0.25 pounds per ton. Occasionally zinc sul-
phate is used in conjunction with the cyanide, the
amount of zinc sulphate usually added being ap-
proximately three times that of the cyanide. Some
operations add the cyanide and zinc sulphate in the
ball mill; others prefer to use the cyanide in the
cleaner circuit since, when added at this point, the
cyanide is more effective in small amounts and the
effect can be more easily noted by frequent panning
of the lead cleaner tailings.
In the treatment of certain complex lead-zinc ores
containing copper and iron suiphides, improved re-
[29)
suits are sometimes obtained by the use of calcium
or sodium sulphite in addition to an alkaline cya-
nide for the depression of zinc and iron suiphides.
With this reagent combination it is sometimes pos-
sible to secure a better recovery of the copper sul-
phides in the galena float, with consequent improve-
ment in the grade of the zinc concentrate. This is
usually an advantage because of the greater ease in
separating copper from a copper-lead concentrate
than copper from a copper-zinc concentrate.
For the flotation of the galena, Aerofloat 25 or
Aerofloat 31, or one of the xanthates is effective.
When Aerofloat 25 or Aerofloat 31 is used, it is
sometimes not necessary to add any frother since
these reagents are frothers as well as promoters.
Usually cresylic acid or pine oil are used as frothers
when necessary, the amount usually not exceeding
0.10 pounds per ton.
Because of its dispersibility in water, Reagent
242 is more effective on certain types of complex
ores than the other Aerofloat Flotation Reagents
mentioned. Small amounts of Reagent 242 can be
stage-fed during flotation to give good recovery of
lead and copper sulphides without floating sub-
stantial amounts of zinc and iron sulphides.
After the flotation of the galena hasbeen effected,
copper sulphate in the amount of 12 pounds per
ton of ore is added and the pulp conditioned for a
few minutes, or occasionally, up to as long as an
hour, after which the promoter is added. As men-
tioned under Zinc Ores, Sodium Aerofloat,
Sodium Aerofloat B, Reagent 213 or Reagent 226
are most widely used as zinc reagents and the re-
marks on the use of these promoters given under
Zinc Ores apply here also.
In cases where soda ash is used as the alkalinity
regulator in the lead circuit, it is very often cus-
tomary to use lime in the zinc circuit in order to
retard the flotation of pyrite during zinc flotation.
The amount of lime should be sufficient to give a
pH of around 10.0 at which point zinc flotation is
rapid and the pyrite is depressed. However, it is to
be noted that some varieties of marmatitic zinc sul-
phides do not respond at all readily to flotation in a
relatively high alkaline circuit. Occasionally it is
not possible to obtain a good recovery at a pH much
higher than 8.0 to 8.5.
Some operations report better results when the
pulp is conditioned with copper sulphate before con-
ditioning with lime. Others find it advantageous to
condition first with lime and then with copper sul-
phate. Commonly, however, the copper sulphate and 4,4,
the lime are added to the same conditioner ahead of
flotation.
 After removal of lead and zinc concentrates, some
operations recover a pyrite concentrate. This is com-
monly accomplished by the addition of a strong, less
selective sulphide promoter such as Reagent 301.
The addition of a further amount of copper sulphate
is also desirable in some instances.
Complex Copper-Lead-Zinc Ores
The usual methods of treatment of copper-lead-
zinc suiphide ores include the selective depression of
zinc with a cyanide and zinc sulphate, or a sulphite,
followed by the selective flotation of a bulk copper-
lead concentrate using Thiocarbanilide 130, Re-
agent 404, or Reagent 242 and Frothers B-23 or
B-48. The zinc is then conditioned with copper sul-
phate, lime, and floated with Sodium Aerofloat or
one of the other dry Aerofloat Flotation Reagents.
Usually, the bulk copper-lead concentrate is then
treated in order to separate the galena and copper
sulphides.
The following two general procedures have been
used commercially with good success.
1. Depression of copper minerals with a cyanide
and flotation of galena.
This method is commonly employed for the
treatment of concentrates relatively high in
copper, mainly as chalcopyrite, and low in
lead. To effect the separation, the hulk copper-
lead concentrate is conditioned in a mechani-
cal agitator at about 12%18% solids with 5
to 20 pounds per ton of Aero Brand Cyanide
and 5 to 10 pounds of soda ashboth reagents
being so adjusted as to obtain maximum de-
pression of copper. Time of conditioning re-
quired will vary from a fraction of a minute
to about 10 minutes. Time of conditioning
should be kept to the minimum in order to
preserve the full effect of the cyanide as well
as reduce the consumption of this reagent.
Following this conditioning period, the galena
is floated with the addition of a small amount
of a selective promoter such as Reagent 242 or
Thiocarbanilide 130 and a frother such as
Frother B-23 or B.48 if one is required. The
concentrate is removed slowly in order to avoid
entrapment of chalcopyrite by mass action.
Time of flotation may vary from about 6 to 10
minutes. Cleaning of the rougher concentrate
is usually beneficial, and additional cyanide is
helpfulin this operation.
Tetrasodium pyrophosphate and sodium hexa-
metaphosphate have been suggested as auxil-
iary aids in the separation, to buffer the pH
[30]
and overcome any possible ill effect from lime
alkalinity.
2. Depression of galena with suiphurous acid,
zinc hydrosuiphite, and starch followed by
selective flotation of copper suiphicles.
This method was developed by the staff of San
Francisco Mines of Mexico and has been used
with outstanding success thereto separate chal-
copyrite from galena from a bulk concentrate
of these two minerals. It would appear to be
particularly suitable for low-copper, high-lead
bulk concentrates.
The general procedure involves the following
steps:
(a) Thickening of the bulk concentrate to
about 50% solids.
(b) Conditioning of the pulp with a 4% solu-
tion of SO2 produced by passing the gas
over iron and then into water. The pH of
the pulp is adjusted to 3.0 and main-
tained at this point during the condition-
ing period of about 10 minutes.
(c) Addition to the conditioner of about 4
pounds per ton of zinc hydrosulphide and
about 1/2 pound per ton of 2%tapioca
or corn starch boiled in 10% zinc sul-
phate solution. At the end of this condi-
tioning period the clean chalcopyrite
shows up at the top of the pulp.
(d) Addition of dry lime to adjust the pH to
6.0, and addition of about 1/4 pound per
ton of the starch mixture and a small
amount of selective copper promoters
and frothers. In this connection, Reagents
208 and 238 and Sodium Aerofloat are
excellent selective promoters for copper
sulphides and poor promoters for galena
and are, therefore, to be recommended
for this separation. Reagent 242 should
also be tried. Frothers such as B-23, and
cresylic acid give desirable froths.
(e) Flotation is conducted at 15% to 18%
solids. The rougher concentrate is usually
cleaned at least once.
(f) General Comments
This method of treatment is reported to
be well suited to the separation of copper
suiphides such as bornite and chalcocite
from galena.
It would appear that some variations in
reagents would be worth investigating.
For example, Reagents 610, 633 and 645
 might be used to advantage in place of
starch mixtures.
3. Other Methods
Some plants have obtained successful separa-
tion of copper sulphides from galena from a
bulk concentrate, using a water.soluble chro-
mate or dichromate to depress the galena. The
copper suiphides are then selectively floated
with promoters such as Reagents 208, 238,
Sodium Aerofloat or Thiocarbaniljde 130.
Sometimes it is advantageous to condition the
pulp with a small amount of sulphuric acid.
When this is done, the pulp is neutralized
with lime or soda ash after conditioning and
prior to flotation. Excess chromate or dichro-
mate is harmful to selectivity.
More recently, tile addition of soluble phos-
phate to an alkaline pulp containing copper
suiphides and galena has been proposed as
selective depressants for galena while permit-
ting the copper minerals to be floated with a
xanthate.
Copper-Zinc Ores
The selective flotation of copper suiphides from
sphalerite or marmatite usually requires careful
selection of reagents and close control of operating
conditions for best results. The following general
procedures and reagents have been found to give
good separations on many types of copper-zinc ores.
1. Copper Circuit
No alkalinity from either calciumor sodium salts
can be tolerated in the grinding circuit or copper
rougher flotation circuit, otherwise zinc suiphide
tends to float. A pH of about 7.3 is usually desirable.
For depression of zinc suiphides, sodium suiphite is
added to the grinding circuit, and cyanide to the
conditioner ahead of the rougher flotation machines.
For the selective flotation of copper suiphides, Re-
agent 404, Thiocarbanilide 130, Reagent 425 and
Reagent 301 have all been used to good effect. Thio-
carbanilide 130 and Reagent 404 are perhaps pref-
erable, with part of these promoters added to the
conditioner and part to the flotation machines.
[31)
Frother B-23 is a useful frother for this type of
separation.
Strong conditioning is helpful in securing better
separations in the case of some ores.
In cleaning the rougher concentrate, conditioning
with a cyanide and zinc sulphate prior to flotation
yields improved results. The cleaner tailings are
usually returned to the ball mill for regrinding prior
to reflotation in the rougher circuit.
2. Zinc Circuit
Following removal of the copper suiphides, the
pulp is conditioned with copper sulphate, lime and
a selective zinc promoter such as Sodium Aerofloat.
In the case of some ores, improved results are ob-
tainable when the pulp is conditioned at a relatively
low pH of 6.7-7.0 with copper sulphate and the pro-
moter prior to addition of lime and further condi-
tioning, it being claimed that the proper pH at the
right time and the right place, and the correct point
of addition of copper sulphate and lime is an essen-
tial prerequisite for optimum metallurgy.
In the rougher flotation operation, Aerofloat 15 is
frequently used as a secondary promoter-frothier.
Frother B.23 is also~a useful selective frother.
Copper-Molybdenite Separations
Copper ores commonly contain small amounts of
molybdenite, the recovery of which during recent
years has assumed increasing economic importance.
Until recently, no simple methods have been avail-
able for securing a high recovery of molybdenite
in a concentrate of marketable grade. There has
been a demand for some specific reagent that would
selectively float or selectively depress either the
copper suiphides or the molybdenite.
Recently developed, Reagent 505 has shown itself
to be well-adapted to the treatment of copper-
molybdenum ores and concentrates where it func-
tions as a selective depressant for the copper sul-
phicles. Amounts required range from a few tenths
to several pounds per ton of flotation feed, depend-
ing upon whether ore is to be treated or a copper-
molybdenum concentrate.
4,
0.
 METALLIC OXIIIE ANIII I~JOI~I-METALLICMI1~TEllALS
The beneficiation of metallic oxide and non-metallic oresby means offroth flotation is assuming increas-
ing commercial importance and much progress has been made in this art. With the multiplicity of reagents
now available, and the advanced technique developed for the application of these reagents, there are few
minerals today which do not respond to flotation.
This field of flotation is too broad to cover in detail the various reagents and techniques employed in
plant and laboratory for the treatment of the wide variety of ores and minerals that have been found to respond
to flotation. Accordingly, a condensed summary listing some of the more important minerals that respond to
flotation, and the reagents which have been found useful in their treatment, is presented in Table VII on
Page 40 as a guide. More detailed information regarding the application of flotation reagents and processes
to particular ores may be obtained by writing to the Mineral Dressing Division in New York City. The
following general remarks in regard to some of the factors involved in connection with successful flota-
tion of metallic oxide and non-metallic ores may be of interest.

Sizes of Minerals Amenable to Flotation Influence of Grinding Media

In general, sizes coarser than 20 mesh do not
readily respond to froth flotation, and sizes below 48
mesh are much more amenable. On the other end of
the scale, it is generally found that the flotability of
minerals tends to decrease in the size ranges below
about 600 mesh.
Sizes coarser than 28 or 35 mesh can usually be
handled more effectively and economically byag-
glomerate tabling, or gravity concentrate methods.
Some types of ores are very sensitive to iron salts
and must be ground in silex lined pebble mills.
Purity of Milling Water
Most types of ores respond to flotation more read-
ily in softened water than in hard water.
Temperature
Most non-metallic minerals float more readily and
selectively in warm water than in cold water and
require less reagents.

Influence of SHines, Surface Coatings. Conditioning

and Soluble Salts on Flotation
Some types of slimes and soluble salts present in
certain ores interfere with flotation and should be
removed by desliming and decantation or dewater-
ing prior to flotation. Likewise, the surface condition
of the minerals in some ores is such that a scrub-
bing or polishing treatment must be given to the
ground ore pulp prior to flotation. This attrition
scrubbing may sometimes be accomplished in rela-
tively slow speed machines such as blade mills, or
more intense treatment in high speed agitators may
be necessary. In many ores, the addition ofa reagent
such as caustic soda during the scrubbing treatment
improves results.
The flotation results ofmost non-metallic ores can
be improved by ascrubbing and desliming treatment
ahead of flotation. Local economics must decide
whether benefits gained are sufficient to offset loss of
valuablemineral in the slimes.
Most ores require conditioning with reagents in
some form of agitation apparatus prior to flotation.
Some ores must be conditioned at high pulp density
for best results, others may be conditioned at the
same pulp density required for flotation. Time of
conditioning may vary from a fraction of a minute
to as long as an hourormore.
Flotation Machines
Excellent results are obtainable in two types of
flotation machines marketed by the American Cyana-
mid Company. The Fagergren Flotation Machine,
which is the straight mechanical type, is in wide use
in both the suiphide and non-suiphide ore flotation
field, particularly for the treatment of cement rock
and phosphate rock. For the treatment of coarse,
heavy gravity ores and ores which must be floated in
an acid circuit, the Steffensen Air Flotation Machine
an improved free air typeis finding increasing
use.

[32]
 App1i~atiunsuf the DUB Series llea~jents
The following examples showing the application a sufficient quantity of sulphuric acid to give a pH
of Cyanamids recently developed processes using of about 3 to 4, for a period of about 3 to 5 minutes.
800 Series promoters to certain specific separa. Following this conditioning treatment the puips were
tions will serve to illustrate some of the foregoing diluted to about 2025% solids and subjected to
remarks as well as the efficiency of these reagents as flotation. The rougher iron concentrate was cleaned
selective promoters for iron-bearing minerals. once or more, depending on the characteristics of the
Separations on Iron Ores flotation feed.
The washery tailings or ground ore puips were The following results were obtained with Reagent
deslimed to remove the finest sizes and then condi- 801 on various iron ores and washery tailings using
tioned at high solids with about 1 to 4 pounds per processes developed in the Cyanamid Mineral Dress-
ton of Reagent 801; about 24 lbs. per ton fuel oil; ing Laboratory.
TABLE I
Mesabi_Range_Hematite Specular hematite
Current Old Magnetite MartLie Hematite Taconite
Product Tailings Tailings Taconite Eastern U.S. Eastern U.S. Africa Michigan
Flotation Feed
%Fe 20.16 29.90 23.16 22.90 26.52 54.50 40.53
Flotation Conc.
%Fe 58.69 60.39 59.10 65.49 61.53 67.60 62.19
% Sb2 7.98 9.02 11.50 5.68 5.25 1.62 10.09
Recovery
%Fe 91.90 96.61 93.76 91.13 90.23 94.26 94.71

Garnet Flotation Beneficiation ofFeldspar

An ore made up of iron-bearing garnet as alman- The 800 Series Reagents are applicable to the
dite, hornblende (about 8.3% Fe), plagioclase feld- removal of iron-bearing and other objectionable im-
spars, hypersthene, and small amounts of biotite, purities from feldspar for use in the ceramic indus-
apatite and pyrite was tested. The application of the tries. On one sample the following procedure gave
800 Series Reagents in this case is especially in- good results:
teresting in that it was possible to separate one iron- 1. Condition 1000-gram charge in laboratory
bearingconstituent, garnet, from a second iron-bear. Fagergren Machine for 2 minutes with 0.6
ing component, hornblende. The testing procedure lb./ton NaOH.
was briefly as follows: The ore was ground to minus
35 mesh and the low grade slimes discarded. The 2. Deslime by decantation.
sands were thickened and conditioned with sulphuric 3. Condition by mixing sands with reagents (2.0
acid and a mixture of Reagent 801 and Reagent lb./ton Reagent 801; 1.3 lb./ton fuel oil; 0.6
825. Fuel oil was also added at this point. The pulp lb./ton sulphuric acid; 0.05 lb./ton Aerofloat
was then diluted to 25% solids and floated. The 31) for 4 minutes at 65%70% solids.
concentrates were cleaned twice. Table H sum-
marizes a typical flotation test. 4. Float for 4 minutes.
The excellent selectivity resulting from the use of
TABLE II Reagent 801 and conditioning with an acid is indi-
4,
Garnet cated by the results listed in Table III.
Product % Assay % Di,:.
TABLE Ill
Sand 11.6 100.0
Concentrate 98.0 97.6 % Fe,O,
Tailing 0.3 2.4 Weight Assay Dist.
Reagents: 1.07 lb./ton mixture Reagents 801 and 825 Concentrate 9.55 2.16 87.38 4,
6.5 lb./ton H,S0, Tailing 90.45 0.033 12.62
0.64 lb./ton Fuel Oil Feed 100.00 0.236 100.00

[33]

I
 The iron content of the feldspar tailing was well when applied to the removal of iron minerals from
below the required specifications and this product glass sands. The following results obtained on glass
is suitable for ceramic uses. The above procedure sand, containing iron impurities mainly as chlorite,
was given a mill test and the results were confirmed. are typical.
Two feldspar producers are now using this process
TABLE IV
to improve their feldspar.
% %Fe203
Product Weight Analysis Distribution
Purification of Glass Sands
Feed 100.00 0.040 100.0
The foregoing described procedure used to bene. Iron Concentrate 6.58 0.424 69.6
ficiate feldspar ores, also gives excellent results Tailing 93.42 0.013 30.4

[34]
 REJIBENT FEEIJEBS
Reagent feeders may he classified into two main
groups, namely, feeders for solid reagents and
feeders for liquid reagents. Various types are avail-
able in each group.
The main requirements for an efficient type of
feeder are:
1. Precision and reliability.
2. Ease of adjustment.
3. Resistance to attack by reagents being fed.
4. Provision of insuring constant conditions in
the reagent being fed.
5. Simplicity of design and flexibility.
6. Low cost of operation and maintenance.
In general, all reagents which are readily soluble
in water should be fed in solution to the flotation
circuit. In cases where it is necessary to feed large
quantities of reagents such as soda ash, lime, or zinc
sulphate, it may be preferable to feed them in the
solid form. Insoluble reagents, such as thiocar-
banilide must, of course, be fed in the solid form.
Reagent Feeders for Solids
Slow-moving belt conveyers are commonly used
for feeding solid reagents. Other types include elec-
trically vibrated conveyor, horizontal revolving plate
and cutter, and screw conveyor.
Best results are obtained when the reagent is
finely ground, uniform in size, and free from lumps.
The reagent feeder selected should be of a type
having easy and wide range of adjustment. For feed-
ing solid reagents, a feeder which delivers a small
quantity of material at a steady rate is more desir-
able than one which delivers a large amount of
material at intervals.
Reagent Feeders for Liquids
and Oils
Many types of feeders are available for feeding
liquid reagents and aqueous solutions. The following
are some of the more common types:
Pulley and finger
Disc and cups
Reciprocating cup
Pulley and finger type feeders are not satisfactory
for the following reasons:
1. Sensitivity to changes in viscosity of reagent.
2. Tendency of liquid Aerofloat to corrode the
surface of the pulley, causing erratic and un-
steady feeding.
3. Tendency of reagents to decompose as a result
of exposure. A thin film of reagent is exposed
on the surface of the pulley, providing ideal
conditions for oxidation and decomposition.
The decomposition of the reagent causes the
[35]
formation of a gummy precipitate which ad-
heres to the surface of the pulley, collects in
the tank and interferes with the operation of
the feeder.
Disc and Cup
Disc and cup type feeders are probably in more
general use than any other type of liquid reagent
feeder. This type of feeder consists essentially of a
tank, inside of which is a vertical disc submerged in
the liquid and rotating on a horizontal axis. A num-
ber of cups or buckets are hung on the disc in such
a way that these may be tripped and the contents
discharged into a collecting trough. The rate of feed
is regulated by varying the speed of rotation of the
disc, the size and number of cups, or by changing
the position of the tripper which in turn changes the
angle of discharge of the cups.
In general, the disc and cup type of feeder has
proved satisfactory for feeding most liquids, includ-
ing Aerofloat. They are positive in action, have a
wide range of feed, and may be accurately adjusted
with ease and rapidity.
In feedingAerolloats 15, 25 and 31 with this type
of feeder, it is recommended that a cover be pro-
vided over the container and feeding mechanism to
prevent decomposition of the Aerofloat due to long
exposure to air and moisture. Feeders manufactured
of corrosion resisting alloys and ~equipped with
covers are sold by various equipment companies.
Of the various disc and cup type feeders now
available, the Clarkson Reagent Feeder marketed by
American Cyanainid Company deserves special
mention. Designed to meet the requirements of both
largeand small mills, it has an unusually wide range
of adjustment. Adjustments are quickly and easily
made while the feeder is in motion, by means of an
ingenious device which splits the flow of liquid
emptied from the cups and delivers the exact quan-
tity required, returning the remainder to the feed
reservoir. The rate of feed is adjustable over a range
of from a few drops per minute up to 2,000 cc. per
minute. Every part of the Clarkson feeder which
comes in contact with the reagents is constructed of a
corrosion-resistant stainless steel alloy.
Reciprocating Cup Feeders
This type of feeder works on the same principle
as the self-dumping mine skip. The feeder consists
essentially of a large reservoir into which a cup is
lowered and raised by means of a reciprocating
device. Rate of feed is controlled by adjusting the 4,4,
angle to which the cup is tipped at the point of dis-
charge.
 REFERENCES TO PUBLICATIONS ON FLOTATION
The Mechanism of the Surface Phenomena of
Flotation by I. Langmuir, Trans. FaradaySoc. Vol.
151920
Concentration by Flotation by T. A. Richard
John Wiley & Sons, Inc.192l
Surface Reactions in Flotation by A. W. Fahren-
wald, Trans. A.I.M.M.E. Vol. 701924
Recording Instruments and Flotation Reagent Con-
trol by E. H. Rose, Eng. & Mi Jour.Vol. 127,
p. 2421929
Influence of Hydrogen-Ion Concentration on Re-
covery in Simple Flotation Systems by A. M. Gau-
dinMin. & Met.Vol. 10, p. 191929
Concentration of Ore by Flotation by H. L. Sul-
man, Trans. Imp. Inst. Mm. & Met.Vol. 391929
1930
Chemical Tools of Flotation by G. H. Buchanan,
Mm. & Met. MagazineVol. 11, p. 5651930
Chemistry and the Flotation Process by L .J.
Christmann, Tech. Paper No. 17, American Cyana-
mid Company, Nov. 1930
Flotation by E. Mayer & H. ScbranzS. Hirzel
(Leipzig) 1931
Effect of Grinding Time and Pulp Dilution on
Flotation by A. W. Fahrenwald & L. T. Abele, Eng.
& Mi Jour.Vol. 131, p. 1691931
Flotation by A. M. GaudinMcGraw Hill Book
Co., Inc.1932
The Physical. Chemistry of Flotation by I. W.
WarkTrans. Elec.Chem. Soc. Vol. 611932
Recovery by Flotation of Mineral Particles of
Colloidal Sizeby A. M. Gaudin & P. Malozemoff
Jour. Phys. Chem. Vol. 37, p. 5971933
Soap Flotation of the Non-Sulfides by W. H.
Coghill & J. B. Clemmer, Trans. A.I.M.M.E.Vol.
1121934
The Case forthe Chemical Theory ofFlotation by
A. F. Taggart, G. II. M. Del Guidice & 0. Ziehl
Trans. A.I.M.M.E. Vol. 1121934
Flotation by V. I. TrushlevichMoscow-1935
New Flotation Reagents by R. S. Dean & A. B.
Hersberger, Tech. Pub. 605, A.I.M.M.E.1935
Some Effects of Diluting a Flotation Pulp by
0. C. Ralston & C. R. King, Mm. & Met. Vol. 16, p.
3321935
Cyanidation & Concentration of Gold and Silver
Ores by J. V. N. DorrMcGraw Hill Book Co.,
lnc.1936
Schwimmaufbereitung by W. PetersonTheo-
dore Steinkopif, Dresden & Leipzig1936
Flotation Plant Practice by P. RaboneMining
Publications, Ltd. (London)1936
The Trend of Flotation by A J. Weinig & C. B.
Carpenter, Quarterly of the Colorado School of
Mines (Fourth Edition, Revised)Oct. 1937
Use of Wetting Agents in Flotation by R S.
Dean, J. B. Clemmer, and S. R. B. CookeU. S.
Bureau of Mines, Rept. mv. 33331937
Flotation and Agglomerate Concentration of Non-
Metallic Minerals by 0. C. Ralston, U. S. Bureau
of Mines Rept. Investigations 33971938
Principles of Flotation by I. W. WarkThe
Australasian Inst. of Mm. & Met.Melbourne
1938
Pulp Density as a Factor in Flotation by Newton
& Epsen, Eng. & Mm. Jour. May, 1938
Influence ofTemperature in FlotationThe Min-
ing Magazine (London)March, 1938
Principles of Mineral Dressing by A. M. Gaudin
McGraw Hill Book Co., Inc.1939
Non-Sulfide Flotation by F. B. MichelThe Min-
ing Magazine (London) March, 1939
Conditioning Surfaces for Froth Flotation by J.
Norman and 0. C. RalstonTech. Pub. 1074,
A.I.M.M.E.Feb. 1939
Flotation ReagentsOre Dressing Notes No. 7
Second Edition, American Cyanamid Company
1940
Flotation Concentration of Oxidized Minerals and
Salts by D. D. HowattMine & Quarry Eng.,
March, April and August issues, 1941
The Mechanism of Activation in Flotation by
A. M. Gaudin and A. Rizo-PatronTech. Pub.
1453, A.I.M.M.E. Feb., 1942
The Chemistry of Collection of Non-Metallic Min-
erals by Amine-Type Collectors by A. F. Taggart
& N. Arbiter, Tech. Paper 1685, A.I.M.M.E. Feb.,
1944
Development & Use of Certain Flotation Reagents
by R. S. Dean & P. M. AmbroseU. S. Bureau of
Mines Bulletin 4491944
Flotation Machines of the Tennessee Copper Coni-
pany by J. F. Meyers & F. M. LewisTech. Pub.
1680, A.I.M.M.E. Feb., 1944
Froth Flotation of Some Non-Suiphide Minerals of
Strategic Importance by S. A. Falconer and B. D.
Crawford. Mining Technology (A.I.M.M.E.) No-
vember, 1944
Handbook of Ore Dressing by A. F Taggart
John Wiley & Sons, Inc.1945
Additional References
Ore Dressing Notesvarious issuesPublished by
American Cyanamid Company, Mineral Dressing
Division, 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York 20, N. Y.
Flotation IndexPublished yearly by The Great
Western Division, The Dow Chemical Company.
United States Bureau of Mines PublicationsMill-
ing methods of various operations described in
various Information Circulars and Bulletins.
[~6]
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I [42)
 AIIfflTIIJNIIL CYANAMIIJ SERVICES TO THE MIXING INDUSTRIES
Although this publication covers flotation only, Cyanamid offers additional processes and products to the
mining industries for ore beneficiation. Very often, a combination of processes is necessary for economical
concentration and recovery.

Lyanidalinn
Cyanidation is the most widely used process for extracting gold and silver from their ores. For this
process Cyanamid manufactures and distributes AERO Brand Cyanide, long a standard for cyanide plants
the world over. Cyanamid also distributes Asarco Brand Zinc Dust, both High Efficiency and G Grades.
Cyanamids mineral dressing engineers have acquired a broad experience in the testing of gold and silver
ores for amenability to cyanidation and to combinations of cyanidation with other methods of gold and
silver recovery.
In addition, two technical publications on practical applications of cyanidation are available. These are:
Ore Dressing Notes Number 6 Cyanidation of Concentrates and Ore Dressing Notes Number 8 containing
a paper on the beneficiation by flotation and cyanidation of the Banket Sands of South Africa.

Heavy-Media fleparatiun Prucesses

As stated in the introduction to this publication, American Cyanamid Company is the sole technical and
sales representative throughout the world for Heavy-Media Separation Processes. These are the most efficient
gravity methods of concentrating fragmentary materials, including coal, and offer opportunities for sub-
stantial economies. Heavy-Media Separation may be used to reduce overall milling costs by rejecting, at a
coarse size, a large percentage of mill feed that is too low grade for profitable treatment. Heavy-Media Sepa-
ration may also be used to produce a marketable concentrate without further treatment. Waste products and
sub-marginal ores may be made commercially valuable and mining costs may be reduced by permitting the
use of cheaper and less selective mining methods.
Today, a large tonnage of a wide variety of ores, metallic and non-metallic, are being treated successfully
by Heavy-Media Separation Processes on a commercial scale, including iron, zinc, fluorspar, magnesite,
garnet, tin, lead-zinc, and bituminous coal. A number of new plants are under construction or being designed.
Pilot plant tests have indicated that Heavy-Media Separation can be used commercially for the concen-
tration of such ores as diamond, potash, anthracite coal, gypsum, tungsten, tin, and manganese. The list of
ores that respond to treatment by Heavy-Media Separation is constantly expanding.
In order to provide mining companies and university or governmental laboratories with a laboratory unit
suitable for batch testing, Cyanamid engineers have designed a 20 unit having a capacity of several hundred
pounds of ore or coal per hour in a size range of 1 to 10 mesh. This unit follows the general design of com-
mercial units and results closely approaching those obtained in commercial practice can be secured.
For treating ore or coal at a rate of 5 to 15 tons per hour, a semi-portable Heavy-Media Separation unit
has been designed. This plant is well suited to the treatment of deposits or dumps of limited tonnage or as a
pilot plant during development stages of new ore deposits.
Cyanamid engineers are ready to cooperate with engineers of mining companies, or with designing engi-
neers of their selection, in the recommendation of equipment and the preliminary design for commercial
plants. Cyanamid engineers have had a broad experience in Heavy-Media Separation plant layout and in the
operation of commercial units.
The services of the staff of our Mineral Dressing Laboratory and the facilities of our Pilot Plant at
Stamford, Connecticut, are available to interested mining companies, engineering firms and consultants for
the development of data that will determine the economic application of Heavy-Media Separation to the
beneficiation of all types of ores and coal.
Additional detailed information on the Heavy-Media Separation Processes and descriptions of com-
mercial plants using these processes are available in Ore Dressing Notes Number 14, which will be sent to
those interested upon request.

1 43 1
 C;

Flutation Machines

Illustrated at the left is a cross see-

tioti of the Level Type Fagergren Flota-
tion Machine. Over 5,800 Fagergren ma.
chines have been installed in all mining
districts of the world and have built up an
enviable record for high metallurgical
efficiency and high capacity, treating both
metallic and non-metallic minerals. The
Fagergren rotor-stator element pt~ovicles
the intense aeration and agitation of the
ptllf) that makes the Fagergren mach inc
outstanding.
rfhe Fagergren Flotation Machine
has been installed in both small mills
treating a few hundred tons per day with
a few machines and in the Worlds largest
flotation concentrator treating over 50,000
toils per day with over 600 Fagergren
Flotation Machines. The tremendous war-
time increase ill production achieved b
mills equipped with Fagergren machines
without the installation of additional flotation ma(llilles has demonstrated their capacity to handle substantial
overloads successfully.
The latest and most efficient type of Fagergren niachine on most ores is the Level Type which may be
constructed as one, two, three, or four tell units iii four commercial sizes. In many cases, mining companies
arrange for the fabrication of the tanks locally, tile rotor-stator being furnished by Cyanamid permitting a
lower cost installation through a saving in freight.

The Steffensen Flotation Machine, illus-

[rated at the left, is of the free air type with no
moving parts, incorporating a new and effective
air dispersion element which produces a lively,
small bubbled froth. The result is a higher
metallurgical efficiency than formerly believed
possible with an air flotation machine.
Tests, supported by plant operation, have
shown that the Steffensen machine is particu-
larly well suited to the beneficiation of coarse,
fast-settling ores.
Altho introduced comparatively recently,
Steffensen machines are treating a variety of
metallic and non-metallic minerals including
coal, garnet, feldspar, hematite, magnetite, and
chalcopyrite.

[~44]
LEAF 401 No 15 1OM 1-47 HJL PRINTE3 IN U SA.
 Additional information on flotation reagents, processes and machines as well as on cyanidation and
ieavy-Media Separation Processes, will be furnished by any one of the following:

AMERICAN CYANAMID COMPANY

Mineral Dressing Division -

30 Rockefeller Plaza
New York 20, N. Y.

CYANAMID PRODUCTS LIMITED N0RTu AMERICAN CYANAMID LIMITED

Brettenham House, Lancaster Place Royal Bank Building

London, W.C. 2, England Toronto 1, Ontario, Canada

0. B. HUNDLEY SOUTH AFRICAN CYANAMID (PTY.) LTD.

Casilla 9371 - Cullinan Bldg.

- Santiago, Chile Johannesburg, South Africa

G. B. OMALLEY REACTIVOS,S.A.
377 Little Collins St. . Apartado 71
Melbourne, Australia Mexico, D.F., Mexico