Synergistic activation of sulfidized hemimorphite with copper-lead species for improving surface hydrophobicity and floatability

In this work, the synergistic effects of Cu2+ and Pb2+ on the flotation behavior, surface properties, and xanthate adsorption of sulfidized hemimorphite were investigated through flotation experiments, surface analysis, and solution determination. The results of the micro-flotation tests indicated that the flotation recovery of sulfidized hemimorphite increased after synergistic activation with Cu2+ and Pb2+, the flotation index can reach about 87%, and superior to that treated with single Cu2+ or Pb2+. Zeta potential, XPS, and ToF-SIMS measurements showed that Cu2+ and Pb2+ were adsorbed onto the sulfidized hemimorphite surface, and multi-metal sulfide species, such as zinc sulfide, copper sulfide, and lead sulfide, were formed. Compared to a single treatment with Cu2+ or Pb2+, the content and activity of sulfidization products became increased after sulfidized hemimorphite was simultaneously activated. The formation of a greater amount of highly active copper and lead species was beneficial for the adsorption of xanthate onto the sulfidized hemimorphite surface, improving surface hydrophobicity. FT - IR, contact angle, and adsorption capacity measurements showed that more xanthate species interacted with the sulfidized hemimorphite surface activated with Cu2+ and Pb2+, and the surface hydrophobicity of the sulfidized hemimorphite was significantly enhanced.