Statistical investigation of flotation parameters for copper recovery from sulfide flotation tailings

Abstract

This study is focused on the froth flotation reprocessing of a copper mineral from flotation tailings. The effects of flotation parameters including pulp density, collector dosage, frother dosage, and dispersant dosage were statistically examined to obtain an effective approach for concentrating copper minerals. The sample ore used in this study was mainly flotation wastes that have been stored for more than 30 years and comprised mixed sulfide minerals and partially oxidized sulfides. We conducted a 24 factorial design on the main parameters that influence flotation performance. The results showed an optimum flotation condition at dosages of 80 ​g/t, 30 ​g/t, and 150 ​g/t of collector, frother, and dispersant respectively with copper recovery and grade of more than 60% and 8% respectively. From the analysis of experimental results, we concluded that though various parameters influence the flotation performance, collector dosage and its interactions with other paramenters are the most influential factors.

Keywords

• Froth flotation
• Reprocessing
• Copper recovery
• Flotation parameters
• Flotation tailings