A non-inhibitor flotation process for selective enrichment of chalcopyrite from molybdenite by using 5-methyl diethyl dithiocarbamate-1,3,4-oxadiazole-2-thione

During froth flotation, the separation of chalcopyrite from molybdenite is hindered by their similar surface properties. Therefore, it is imperative to develop an efficient selective collector with innovative minerophilic groups and reduce the use of inhibitors. In this study, 5-methyl diethyl dithiocarbamate-1,3,4-oxadiazole-2-thione (MDCODT) was first introduced as a collector in chalcopyrite flotation separation from molybdenite. Micro-flotation experiment results expressed that the selectively separation of chalcopyrite from molybdenite could be realized without the addition of inhibitor. Wettability tests, ζ-potential analyses and UV spectrum demonstrated that MDCODT specifically adsorbed on the surface of chalcopyrite rather than molybdenite. And the adsorption mechanism was future explored by AFM scan, electrochemical tests, FTIR spectrum, XPS spectrum and DFT calculation. The active centers of MDCODT are concentrated in dithiocarbamate and oxadiazole thione groups, and MDCODT-Cu(I) complexes can be covered on the chalcopyrite surface with formation of Cu-S and Cu-N bonds. The di-minerophilic group oxadiazole-thione collector, MDCODT, exhibits the advantages of cost-effectiveness and environmental friendliness, rendering it suitable for a wide range of industrial applications.