Research Progress on Low−Alkaline Flotation Reagents for Zinc−sulfur Separation

The separation of sphalerite and pyrite through flotation under low alkali conditions presents a challenging and significant issue within the realm of mineral processing. Conventional methods for separating zinc and sulfur typically require a high−alkali lime environment. Nevertheless, the excessive use of lime can lead to complications such as pipeline obstructions and hinder the activation of metal minerals in subsequent processes.Hence, the careful selection of flotation reagents for zinc−sulfur separation under alkali−free or low−alkali conditions is of paramount importance. The research progress of flotation reagents for zinc−sulfur separation is reviewed.The types of low−alkali inhibitors and low−alkali selective collectors and their separation mechanisms are introduced. The low−alkaline inhibitors encompass organic, inorganic, and novel inhibitors, whereas the low−alkaline selective collectors include xanthates, cationic collectors, combination collectors, and innovative collectors. The advantages and disadvantages of different types of low−alkaline flotation agents are summarized, along with a discussion on the research directions of flotation agents utilized for separating sphalerite and pyrite in a low−alkaline environment.