Analysis of Effective Approaches for Depressing MgO-containing Gangue Minerals in Copper-nickel Sulfide Ore Floatation
Received:November 04, 2011   Revised:May 10, 2012   Accepted:November 10, 2011      Published Online:June 13, 2012
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KeyWord:Copper-nickel sulfide ores,Floatation,Magnesium removal,Depressants
        
AuthorInstitution
Zhang Yahui College of Resources and Civil Engineering, Northeastern University
Meng Fandong College of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology
Sun Chuanyao Beijing General Research Institute of Mining and Metallurgy
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Abstract:
      Nickel ore resources in China are mostly low-grade copper-nickel sulfide ores with high percentage of MgO-containing silicate gangue minerals. Major copper-nickel mines in China, such as Jinchuan Group Ltd., have been striving to lower the magnesium content of floatation concentrate. Although lots of researches have been done, the depressing of MgO-containing gangue minerals in copper-nickel sulfide ore floatation is not technically controllable. Related literatures on depressing of MgO-containing gangue minerals have been reviewed. It is suggested that highly effective composite depressant, that is, a complexing agent - depressant combination, should be employed to depress MgO-containing silicate gangue minerals. A complexing agent is used to clean the surfaces of valuable minerals and gangue minerals, which will increase their floatability difference. In the meantime, a selective depressant is applied to depress MgO-containing gangue minerals. This may be the effective approach for depressing MgO-containing silicate minerals in copper-nickel sulfide ore floatation.
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