Flotation of zinc oxide ores by cationic and mixed collectors

The flotation of smithsonite from tailing which comes from the cerussite flotation circuit was investigated using Armac C and Armac T as amine collectors. The results indicated that the dosage of sodium sulfide, collector type, and desliming are the main affecting factors on the Zn grade and recovery of smithsonite flotation concentrate. Armac T acts a little more selectively than Armac C, and enhances the Zn grade of the concentrate, while Armac C improves the recovery of Zn. At the mixture ratio of Armac C:Armac T = 1:6, without consumption of any gangue depressants, an optimal concentrate with 94.4% recovery, and 42.3% Zn grade is obtained. In this condition, the collectors’ consumption is decreased significantly. Desliming prior to flotation is essential for successful recovery of smithsonite.