Flotation Tests in Copper Flotation to Depress Arsenopyrite

A copper mine experienced increased arsenic content in the feed ore which reports to the flotation concentrates. Laboratory work at the copper flotation plant used Pionera F-200 as arsenopyrite depressant.

Rougher flotation tests with copper sulfide ore from an European mine showed reduced recovery of arsenopyrite in the rougher concentrate compared to the standard reagent suite.

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Key takeaways:

• The addition of Pionera F-200 reduces arsenic recovery to 5% compared to over 20% without depressant.
• The mineralogy shows that the arsenic content is related to arsenopyrite.
• Further tests required to optimize application point and dosage.

Reduced recovery for arsenic in a chalcopyrite flotation.