A nanoparticle cationic polystyrene-co-poly(n-butylacrylate) collector to eliminate the negative effect of lizardite slimes in pyrite flotation

Lizardite slime coating is one of significant factors in the deterioration floatability sulphide minerals. In this study, a nanoparticle cationic polystyrene-co-poly(n-butylacrylate)(PS-PBNH) collector was introduced to eliminate negative impact lizardite slimes pyrite flotation. Microflotation results demonstrated that slims did not affect recovery presence PS-PBNH. Good flotation separation from achieved when PS-PBNH used. The adsorption study indicated exhibited on surface slimes. Sedimentation tests showed hetero-aggregation occurred between and pyrite, whereas introduction resulted heterogeneous dispersion them. Zeta potential measurements suggested interacted with surface, changed charge be positive. As result, interaction shifted electrostatic attraction repulsion, as supported by DLVO calculations. These can used for pyrite/lizardite system without need depressant.