IMPROVED ZINC FLOTATION KINETICS AT THE LOUVICOURT MILL USING FLEX-31

FLEX 31 is a chemically enhanced sodium isopropyl xanthate that has sh own improved collection properties over SIPX for copper-bearing and co pper-activated minerals. Characteristics such as improvement of recove ries with lower dosages and high pyrite and pyrrhotite rejection capab ilities have all been exhibited by FLEX 31. The most improved results have been seen in sphalerite flotation. Plant trial work carried out i n the zinc circuit at the Louvicourt Concentrator in northern Quebec h as produced data showing superior grade and recoveries from rougher co ncentrates that previously had not been attainable with other reagents effectively. The improvement over SIPX adds up to an almost $1,000,00 0 annual improvement on the mine's bottom line at present zinc prices.