Abstract: The flotation behavior of pyrrhotite was investigated by using ethyl xanthate as a collector. The results show that pyrrhotite has good floatability from pH 2 to 11, and poor flotability when pH＞12. The reagents adjusting potential are ammonium persulfate ((NH₄)₂S₂O₈) and sodium dithionite (Na₂S₂O₄). The flotation of pyrrhotite is dependent on pulp potential at certain pH value. The potential-pH range for pyrrhotite flotation was established. Cyclic voltammetry and FTIR spectroscopy analysis show that the major adsorption product of ethyl xanthate on pyrrhotite is dixanthogen. The intensity of FTIR signals of dixanthogen adsorbed on pyrrhotite and the anode current of a pyrrhotite electrode and flotation response of pyrrhotite are correlated with pulp potentials.

Key words:  ethyl xanthate; pyrrhotite; electrochemical flotation; FTIR spectroscopy; cyclic voltammetry