Abstract
Achieving efficient flotation separation of chalcopyrite and galena while maintaining environmental friendliness poses a challenge.This study utilized the environmentally friendly copolymer acrylic acid-2-acrylamide-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (AA/AMPS) as a depressant to separate chalcopyrite and galena.Flotation tests revealed a significant reduction in galena recovery when AA/AMPS was employed,with minimal impact observed on chalcopyrite.In artificial mixed ore flotation,AA/AMPS was found to enhance the efficiency of copper and lead separation,surpassing K2Cr2O7.Furthermore,the effectiveness of AA/AMPS in facilitating copper-lead separation has been validated in practical ore flotation.The pres-ence of AA/AMPS inhibited the adsorption of SBX onto galena,as confirmed by zeta potential and contact angle measurements.However,the adsorption on chalcopyrite remained unaffected.Through analyses using Atomic Force Microscope,X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy,and Density Functional Theory,a robust chemical interaction between the reactive groups in AA/AMPS and Pb sites on galena was uncov-ered,resulting in the formation of a hydrophilic polymer layer.This layer impedes SBX adsorption and reduces galena's floatability.In contrast,no significant chemical adsorption was observed between AA/AMPS and Cu and Fe sites on chalcopyrite,preserving its SBX affinity.Overall,AA/AMPS shows promise in replacing traditional depressants for Cu-Pb sulfide ore separation,enhancing environmental sustainability.