Abstract:
Copper ore from the Rakha Copper Concentrator (India) was successfully floated using LIX-65 NS as the collector. The beneficial role of this reagent was clearly demonstrated in batch-flotation tests. From a feed containing around 1% Cu, it was possible in a single-stage flotation to obtain a 23.7% Cu concentrate with a recovery of more than 90%. The plant now uses rougher, scavenger and a two-stage cleaning process. The tests demonstrated that LIX-65 NS is superior to conventional xanthate for the recovery of copper from the Rakha ore.