Role of sodium sulfide in the flotation of oxidized copper, lead, and zinc ores

This paper reviews uses of sodium sulfide in the flotation of oxide minerals of copper, lead, and zinc. The activation and depression effects of sodium sulfide are of particular importance because of their applications with oxidized lead and copper ores. In spite of its industrial importance, the nature of the heterogeneous reactions between sulfide ions in solution and the surface of oxidized minerals has not been fully understood. Hence, proposed mechanisms of the sulfide action in flotation, methods of measuring and monitoring sodium sulfide in flotation pulps, and variables influencing the sulfide addition are analyzed. Recent studies on sodium sulfide addition to flotation pulps, monitoring its concentration, and the optimum dosage control using platinum and/or sulfide specific ion electrodes are discussed.