A method for inhibiting sulfide ore flotation by using the galvanic action of scrap steel-sulfide ore

Abstract

The application provides a method for inhibiting sulfide ore flotation by using the galvanic corrosion effect of scrap steel-sulfide ore, comprising the following steps: first, cleaning the surface of the scrap steel material; the scrap steel material is easy-to-corrode scrap steel; then, adding mineral processing backwater to the sulfide ore sample to be treated to prepare a sulfide ore slurry; placing the sulfide ore slurry between the two cleaned scrap steels, so that the sulfide ore slurry fully contacts the clean surface of the scrap steel; adding mineral processing backwater to the sulfide ore slurry to be treated, so that the ore sample fully undergoes the galvanic corrosion effect with the scrap steel; obtaining a sulfide ore mineral sample after the galvanic corrosion effect; finally, transferring the obtained sulfide ore sample to a flotation tank for flotation; controlling the constant stirring speed; adding a flotation reagent after stirring for a certain time to perform sulfide ore flotation; and obtaining a flotation concentrate and a tailing product. Compared with the conventional method of using a flotation inhibitor, the flotation method has the advantages of green and clean, low cost and waste resource utilization.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of mineral flotation technology, and in particular to a method for inhibiting sulfide ore flotation by utilizing the galvanic corrosion effect of scrap steel-sulfide ore. Background Technology

[0002] Sulfide ores, as important non-ferrous metal resources, play a vital role in economic development. With the continuous advancement of science and technology, the demand for molybdenum, copper, iron, and other minerals is increasing. Sulfide ores are the main forms in which non-ferrous metal elements exist and are one of the most important ores for industrial extraction of non-ferrous metal elements, possessing high economic value.

[0003] However, during the mining and processing of sulfide ores, many gangue minerals are often associated with them, affecting the quality and value of the target minerals. Simultaneously, with the continuous development of mineral resources, easily beneficiated rich ore resources are gradually depleted, and sulfide ore deposits exhibit characteristics of being "poor, fine-grained, and complex," making it difficult to effectively recover and utilize the target minerals during flotation. Moreover, some gangue minerals have similar properties to sulfide ores during flotation, thus increasing the use of flotation reagents and raising the difficulty of the flotation process. Furthermore, the presence of gangue minerals leads to a decrease in concentrate quality and an increase in smelting costs.

[0004] Therefore, the industry urgently needs a new technology for flotation of sulfide ores. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the problems existing in the prior art, this invention provides a method for inhibiting sulfide ore flotation by utilizing the galvanic corrosion effect between scrap steel and sulfide ore. Because grinding sulfide ore with easily corroded materials such as forged steel causes galvanic corrosion between the sulfide ore and the grinding media, hydrophilic iron oxides form on the sulfide ore surface, thereby reducing its floatability. Furthermore, sulfide ore typically possesses good semiconductor properties, making it prone to galvanic corrosion with iron-based materials. Therefore, utilizing the galvanic corrosion effect between scrap steel and sulfide ore can alter the surface flotation properties of sulfide ore, inhibiting its flotation. Simultaneously, developing novel utilization pathways for scrap steel in sulfide ore flotation helps promote the resource utilization and high-value utilization of scrap steel, reduces the use of flotation reagents, and protects the environment.

[0006] Scrap steel refers to scrapped steel products that have lost their original use value or have been replaced or phased out for various reasons, as well as waste, offcuts, and steel-containing waste generated during the production and processing of steel materials and products. As a type of industrial waste, it is an important resource for the development of a circular economy. Its large output and significant land consumption make it crucial for both environmental protection and economic development. Currently, its utilization primarily involves recovering valuable elements from scrap steel.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, this invention provides a method for inhibiting sulfide ore flotation by utilizing the galvanic corrosion effect of scrap steel and sulfide ore, specifically including the following steps:

[0008] Step 1: Clean the surface of the scrap steel material; the scrap steel material is easily corroded scrap steel;

[0009] Step 2: Add mineral processing water to the sulfide ore sample to be processed to prepare a sulfide ore slurry; place the sulfide ore slurry between the two pieces of scrap steel obtained in Step 1, so that the sulfide ore slurry and the clean surface of the scrap steel are in full contact; add mineral processing water to the sulfide ore slurry to be processed, so that the ore sample and the scrap steel can fully undergo galvanic corrosion, and obtain a sulfide ore mineral sample after galvanic corrosion.

[0010] Step 3: Transfer the sulfide ore sample obtained in Step 2 to a flotation cell for flotation. Control the stirring speed to be constant. After stirring for a certain period of time, add flotation reagents to carry out sulfide ore flotation to obtain flotation concentrate and tailings products.

[0011] Furthermore, in step one, the scrap steel material is pure iron scrap steel, low-carbon steel scrap steel, medium-carbon steel scrap steel, or high-carbon steel scrap steel.

[0012] Furthermore, in step one, the surface of the scrap steel is cleaned, specifically by ultrasonic cleaning and polishing the surface of the scrap steel to remove the oxide film and contaminants such as oil, thus exposing a fresh surface.

[0013] Furthermore, in step one, for severely oxidized scrap steel, shot blasting, high-pressure water jetting, or laser rust removal methods are used to remove rust from the surface of the scrap steel to ensure that a clean surface is exposed.

[0014] Furthermore, in step two, the moisture content of the sulfide ore slurry during the galvanic corrosion process is controlled within the range of 20% - 60%, the galvanic corrosion temperature is 20-80℃, and the galvanic corrosion time is 10-50 min.

[0015] Furthermore, in step two, an electric heater or a solar heater is used to maintain the temperature of the slurry within the range of 20–80 °C during the galvanic corrosion process.

[0016] Furthermore, in step two, during the galvanic corrosion treatment, the slurry between the two scrap steel pieces is stirred evenly once every 3-10 minutes. During the galvanic corrosion treatment, the slurry is stirred 1-3 times for 1-3 minutes. After stirring, the slurry is evenly spread on the clean surface of the scrap steel.

[0017] Furthermore, in step three, the flotation reagent is MIBC (methyl isobutyl methanol) frother.

[0018] Furthermore, in step three, the amount of flotation reagent added is 2-15 g / t.

[0019] The present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0020] 1. This invention utilizes the semiconducting properties of sulfide ores and the corrosive properties of scrap steel. After galvanic corrosion occurs between the sulfide ores and scrap steel, numerous rough, scaly corrosion bands form on the surface of the sulfide ores. Simultaneously, a large amount of hydrophilic iron oxides are generated, weakening their excellent hydrophobic properties and making them hydrophilic, effectively suppressing the sulfide ores. In particular, insulating minerals such as talc do not undergo galvanic corrosion with iron-based materials. However, sulfide ores such as molybdenite have semiconducting properties, and significant galvanic corrosion occurs between them and iron-based materials. Therefore, it is possible to enhance the flotation separation of sulfide ores such as molybdenite and insulating minerals such as talc by utilizing galvanic corrosion.

[0021] The specific principle is as follows: When galvanic corrosion occurs between scrap steel and sulfide minerals, the scrap steel acts as the anode and corrodes, releasing Fe through reaction equations (1) and (2). 2+ or Fe 3+ These iron ions will further form iron oxides in the slurry aqueous solution; and sulfur on the surface of sulfide minerals may also act as an anode for corrosion, releasing through reaction equations (3) and (4). and And form hydroxides on the surface of sulfide minerals:

[0022] Anode reaction formula:

[0023] Fe → Fe 2+ + 2e - (1)

[0024] Fe 2+ → Fe 3+ + e - (2)

[0025] (3)

[0026] (4)

[0027] The electrons released by anodic corrosion are consumed by dissolved oxygen on the surface of the sulfide ore through reaction (3):

[0028] Cathode reaction formula:

[0029] O2 + 2H2O + 4e - → 4OH - (5).

[0030] Therefore, the galvanic corrosion of scrap steel and molybdenite can alter the surface chemical composition of sulfide minerals, affect their surface activity, and the oxidation products such as Fe(OH)3 generated during the galvanic corrosion process can coat the mineral surface, making it more hydrophilic.

[0031] 2. This invention is the first to use scrap steel as a reactant, utilizing its galvanic corrosion reaction with sulfide ores to reduce the surface sulfur content, adsorb and form a large amount of iron oxides, increase the hydrophilicity of the sulfide ores surface, and inhibit sulfide ores flotation. This method is applicable to most sulfide minerals. Currently, the separation process for sulfide ores flotation recovery is complex, requires large amounts of reagents, and has high processing costs. This invention, however, has a strong inhibitory effect on sulfide ores, is highly targeted and selective, has obvious effects, and is simple to operate. Simultaneously, it promotes the resource utilization and high-value utilization of scrap steel, turning waste into treasure, saving costs, and is economical and environmentally friendly.

[0032] 3. This invention provides a novel approach to the high-value utilization of scrap steel, which is beneficial to the sustainable development of the steel and sulfide ore flotation industries. The total amount of usable scrap steel resources in my country's steel industry is projected to reach 290-310 million tons by 2030. The recycling and utilization of scrap steel can play a crucial role in both environmental protection and economic development. Currently, scrap steel is mainly recycled as a key raw material for steelmaking. Developing new utilization methods for scrap steel in sulfide ore flotation will help promote the resource utilization and high-value utilization of scrap steel.

[0033] In addition to the objectives, features, and advantages described above, the present invention has other objectives, features, and advantages. The invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the figures. Attached Figure Description

[0034] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. In the drawings:

[0035] Figure 1 The image shows a scanning electron microscope (SEM) image of molybdenite before galvanic corrosion using pure iron scrap steel, as shown in Case 1.

[0036] Figure 2 The image shows a scanning electron microscope (SEM) image of molybdenite after galvanic corrosion using pure iron scrap steel, as shown in Case 1.

[0037] Figure 3 The EDS energy spectrum of molybdenite before galvanic corrosion was performed using pure iron scrap steel in Case 1.

[0038] Figure 4This is an example of the EDS energy spectrum of molybdenite after galvanic corrosion using pure iron scrap steel, as described in Case 1. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The embodiments of the present invention will now be clearly and completely described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely for explaining and illustrating the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0040] Implementation Case 1

[0041] The molybdenite sample in this implementation case was taken from Hunan Province, China. The mineral was first crushed to -1 mm and then sorted to remove impurities. The resulting concentrate was ground using a sealed test sample preparation pulverizer, and mineral particles with a diameter of -75 μm to +45 μm were collected by a vibrating screen for testing. Chemical analysis of the sample showed that the purity of molybdenite was 97.55%, and it also contained trace amounts of Cu, Fe, and Bi elements.

[0042] The materials used in this implementation case to withstand galvanic corrosion were: pure iron scrap (carbon content: <0.006%), low-carbon steel scrap (carbon content: <0.22%), high-carbon steel scrap (carbon content: 0.8-0.9%), and corrosion-resistant stainless steel scrap. Before use, the scrap steel surfaces were ultrasonically cleaned and polished, and then wiped clean with a clean paper towel.

[0043] Galvanic corrosion treatment: Mineral processing wastewater was added to 1 g of molybdenite slurry to ensure the slurry moisture content was 50% during galvanic corrosion. The slurry temperature was maintained at approximately 50 °C using an electric heater. The molybdenite slurry was placed between the clean surfaces of two horizontally placed scrap steel pieces, ensuring full contact between the slurry and the clean surface to induce galvanic corrosion. The galvanic corrosion treatment lasted for 20 minutes. During the galvanic corrosion treatment, the slurry between the two scrap steel pieces was stirred uniformly every 10 minutes, for a total of one stirring time of one minute. After stirring, the slurry was evenly spread on the clean surface of the scrap steel to ensure full contact between the slurry and the surface, allowing for sufficient galvanic corrosion. The time spent stirring was not included in the galvanic corrosion treatment time. The resulting molybdenite mineral sample was obtained after galvanic corrosion treatment.

[0044] Flotation process: 1 g of molybdenite sample treated with galvanic corrosion was transferred to a 45 ml flotation cell, an appropriate amount of water was added, and after stirring for a certain period of time, 15 g / t MIBC frother was added. The upper layer of foam was manually scraped off at a uniform speed. The flotation temperature was room temperature (20 ℃). The recovery rate was calculated by combining the concentrate and tailings after flotation drying.

[0045] Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) tests were performed on molybdenite before and after galvanic corrosion using pure iron scrap. The results are as follows: Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown. Figure 1 This is a scanning electron microscope (SEM) image of molybdenite before galvanic corrosion. Figure 2 The image shows a scanning electron microscope (SEM) image of molybdenite after galvanic corrosion. EDS (energy dispersive spectroscopy) analysis was also performed on molybdenite before and after galvanic corrosion using pure iron scrap steel. The results are as follows: Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown. Figure 3 The EDS energy spectrum of molybdenite before galvanic corrosion. Figure 4 The EDS energy spectrum of molybdenite after galvanic corrosion.

[0046] Depend on Figure 1 It can be seen that before the galvanic corrosion, the surface of molybdenite was relatively smooth and flat, and from Figure 3 EDS spectroscopy revealed that the atomic ratio of Mo to S was close to 1:2, indicating that the surface material of molybdenite mainly exists in the form of MoS2, and it contains only trace amounts of Fe. The spectroscopy also showed that the surface of molybdenite contains a small amount of O, which may come from the oxygen adsorbed on the surface of molybdenite or from the oxides formed by the self-oxidation of molybdenite when exposed to air.

[0047] Depend on Figure 2 It is evident that significant changes occurred to the surface of molybdenite after galvanic corrosion. Morphological images reveal numerous rough, flaky corrosion bands on the molybdenite surface, along with the adsorption of white, flocculent substances. Furthermore, combined with… Figure 4 EDS (Energy Dispersive X-ray Dioxide) analysis revealed that the atomic ratio of Mo to S on the surface after corrosion was approximately 1:1.5, with a significant increase in O and Fe. This is likely due to the formation of molybdenum oxides and the adsorption of large amounts of iron oxides on the molybdenite surface. The atomic contents of Mo and S before and after galvanic corrosion showed a decrease in both after corrosion, with a greater decrease in S. This suggests the formation of sulfur vacancies on the molybdenite surface after galvanic corrosion, providing adsorption sites for iron oxides. This may be one reason for the altered hydrophobicity of the molybdenite surface and the reduced flotation recovery rate after galvanic corrosion.

[0048] Table 1 shows the recovery rate of molybdenite before and after galvanic corrosion between molybdenite and scrap steel.

[0049] Table 1

[0050]

[0051] Table 1 shows that using easily corroded scrap steel materials such as pure iron can inhibit the flotation of molybdenite and significantly reduce its recovery rate. This is likely because low-carbon steel, high-carbon steel, and pure iron lack corrosion resistance, allowing molybdenite to undergo significant galvanic corrosion with them, thus significantly impacting molybdenite flotation recovery. Conversely, using corrosion-resistant stainless steel scrap has virtually no effect on the floatability of molybdenite. This is probably because stainless steel has excellent corrosion resistance, resulting in no significant galvanic corrosion with molybdenite during the short contact time, thus having no significant impact on molybdenite flotation recovery.

[0052] Implementation Case 2

[0053] The molybdenite sample in this implementation case was taken from Hunan Province, China. The mineral was first crushed to -1 mm and then sorted to remove impurities. The resulting concentrate was ground using a sealed test sample preparation pulverizer, and mineral particles with a diameter of -75 μm to +45 μm were collected by a vibrating screen for testing. Chemical analysis of the sample showed that the purity of molybdenite was 97.55%, and it also contained trace amounts of Cu, Fe, and Bi elements.

[0054] The material used in this implementation case for galvanic corrosion treatment is pure iron scrap steel. Before use, the surface of the scrap steel was ultrasonically cleaned and polished, and then wiped clean with a clean paper towel.

[0055] Treatment of galvanic corrosion:

[0056] Mineral processing recycled water was added to 1 g of molybdenite slurry to achieve slurry moisture content of 20%, 33%, 60%, and 70% during galvanic corrosion. A slurry with 0% moisture content was also included without added recycled water. The slurry temperature was maintained at 20 °C using an electric heater. The molybdenite slurry was placed between the clean surfaces of two horizontally placed scrap steel pieces, ensuring full contact between the slurry and the clean surfaces to induce galvanic corrosion. The galvanic corrosion time was 20 min for each piece. Every 10 minutes during the galvanic corrosion process, the slurry between the two scrap steel pieces was stirred uniformly for 1 minute. After stirring, the slurry was spread evenly on the clean surfaces of the scrap steel to ensure full contact between the slurry and the clean surfaces, allowing for sufficient galvanic corrosion. The time spent stirring was not included in the galvanic corrosion time. The resulting molybdenite mineral sample under galvanic corrosion was then obtained.

[0057] Flotation process:

[0058] One g of molybdenite sample treated with galvanic corrosion was transferred to a 45 ml flotation cell. An appropriate amount of water was added, and after stirring for a certain time, 15 g / t MIBC frother was added. The upper layer of foam was manually skimmed off at a uniform speed. The flotation temperature was room temperature (20℃). The recovery rate was calculated by combining the concentrate and tailings after flotation drying. Table 2 shows the change in molybdenite recovery rate with the galvanic corrosion time after galvanic corrosion between molybdenite and scrap steel.

[0059] Table 2

[0060]

[0061] Table 2 shows that, in the absence of water (0% water content), the flotation recovery rate of molybdenite is 88.29%, which is close to the flotation recovery rate of molybdenite without galvanic corrosion (89.67%). This may be because, in the absence of water, the galvanic corrosion system lacks a conductive medium, preventing galvanic corrosion between pure iron and molybdenite. When an aqueous solution (20% water content) is added during the galvanic corrosion process, the flotation recovery rate of molybdenite after galvanic corrosion decreases to 65.18%, indicating that the solution medium is a necessary condition for galvanic corrosion between scrap steel and molybdenite. Furthermore, as the water content increases sequentially to 33% and 60%, the recovery rate of molybdenite after galvanic corrosion decreases to 45.61% and 33.08%, respectively. However, when the water content continues to increase to 70%, the flotation recovery rate of molybdenite actually increases, indicating that an appropriate water content is crucial in the galvanic corrosion process between pure iron and molybdenite.

[0062] Implementation Case 3

[0063] The molybdenite sample in this implementation case was taken from Hunan Province, China. The mineral was first crushed to -1 mm and then sorted to remove impurities. The resulting concentrate was ground using a sealed test sample preparation pulverizer, and mineral particles with a diameter of -75 μm to +45 μm were collected by a vibrating screen for testing. Chemical analysis of the sample showed that the purity of molybdenite was 97.55%, and it also contained trace amounts of Cu, Fe, and Bi elements.

[0064] The material used in this implementation case for galvanic corrosion treatment is pure iron scrap steel. Before use, the surface of the scrap steel was ultrasonically cleaned and polished, and then wiped clean with a clean paper towel.

[0065] Treatment of galvanic corrosion:

[0066] Mineral processing wastewater was added to 1 g of molybdenite slurry to maintain a slurry moisture content of 33% during galvanic corrosion. An electric heater was used to maintain the slurry temperature at 20 °C. The molybdenite slurry was placed between the clean surfaces of two horizontally placed scrap steel pieces, ensuring full contact between the slurry and the clean surfaces to induce galvanic corrosion. The galvanic corrosion time was 10 min, 20 min, 30 min, and 40 min, respectively. Every 10 minutes during the galvanic corrosion process, the slurry between the two scrap steel pieces was uniformly stirred for 1 minute. After stirring, the slurry was evenly spread on the clean surface of the scrap steel to ensure full contact between the slurry and the clean surface, allowing for sufficient galvanic corrosion. The time spent stirring was not included in the galvanic corrosion time. The resulting molybdenite mineral sample was obtained after galvanic corrosion.

[0067] Flotation process:

[0068] 1 g of molybdenite sample treated with galvanic corrosion was transferred to a 45 ml flotation cell. An appropriate amount of water was added, and after stirring for a certain time, 15 g / t MIBC frother was added. The upper layer of foam was manually skimmed off at a uniform speed. The flotation temperature was room temperature (20℃). The recovery rate was calculated by combining the concentrate and tailings after flotation drying. Table 3 shows the change in molybdenite recovery rate with the galvanic corrosion time after galvanic corrosion between molybdenite and scrap steel.

[0069] Table 3

[0070]

[0071] Table 3 shows that when the galvanic corrosion time is 5 minutes, the flotation recovery rate of molybdenite is 67.29%. This indicates that galvanic corrosion begins to occur between pure iron and molybdenite within a short time, and it also affects the hydrophobicity of the molybdenite surface. However, due to the short contact time, the reaction between the pure iron scrap and molybdenite is insufficient, resulting in only a slight decrease in mineral recovery. As the galvanic corrosion time increases, the flotation recovery rate of molybdenite gradually decreases, at 42.36%, 31.62%, 31.88%, and 32.09% respectively. This indicates that allowing molybdenite to contact the scrap for a sufficient time, enabling sufficient galvanic corrosion between them, can significantly reduce the recovery rate of molybdenite.

[0072] Implementation Case 4

[0073] The molybdenite sample in this implementation case was taken from Hunan Province, China. The mineral was first crushed to -1 mm and then sorted to remove impurities. The resulting concentrate was ground using a sealed test sample preparation pulverizer, and mineral particles with a diameter of -75 μm to +45 μm were collected by a vibrating screen for testing. Chemical analysis of the sample showed that the molybdenite purity was 97.55%, and it contained trace amounts of Cu, Fe, and Bi elements.

[0074] The material used in this implementation case for galvanic corrosion treatment is pure iron scrap steel. Before use, the surface of the scrap steel was ultrasonically cleaned and polished, and then wiped clean with a clean paper towel.

[0075] Treatment of galvanic corrosion:

[0076] Mineral processing wastewater was added to 1 g of molybdenite slurry to maintain a slurry moisture content of 33% during galvanic corrosion. The slurry temperature was maintained at 20 ℃, 30 ℃, and 50 ℃ using an electric heater. The molybdenite slurry was placed between the clean surfaces of two horizontally placed scrap steel pieces, ensuring full contact between the slurry and the clean surfaces to induce galvanic corrosion. The galvanic corrosion process lasted 20 min. Every 10 minutes during the galvanic corrosion process, the slurry between the two scrap steel pieces was uniformly stirred for 1 minute. After stirring, the slurry was evenly spread on the clean surfaces of the scrap steel to ensure full contact between the slurry and the clean surfaces, allowing for sufficient galvanic corrosion. The time spent stirring was not included in the galvanic corrosion time. The resulting molybdenite mineral sample was obtained after galvanic corrosion.

[0077] Flotation process:

[0078] A 1 g sample of molybdenite treated with galvanic corrosion was transferred to a 45 ml flotation cell. An appropriate amount of water was added, and after stirring for a certain time, 15 g / t MIBC frother was added. The upper layer of foam was manually skimmed off at a uniform speed. The flotation temperature was room temperature (20℃). The recovery rate was calculated using both the concentrate and tailings after flotation drying. Table 4 shows the variation of molybdenite recovery rate with pulp temperature after galvanic corrosion between molybdenite and scrap steel.

[0079] Table 4

[0080]

[0081] Table 4 shows that the pulp temperature has a significant impact on the galvanic corrosion process of molybdenite in this invention. When the pulp temperature is 10℃, the flotation recovery rate of molybdenite is 58.16%. This may be because the ion transfer is not active enough during the reaction process when the temperature is too low, resulting in a slower reaction process and a relatively higher flotation recovery rate. When the pulp temperature is 20℃, the flotation recovery rate of molybdenite is 45.21%. When the pulp temperature increases to 30℃, the flotation recovery rate of molybdenite decreases to 27.38%. When the pulp temperature continues to increase to 50℃, the flotation recovery rate of molybdenite decreases to 18.47%. This indicates that the pulp temperature can promote the galvanic corrosion between molybdenite and scrap steel, accelerate the generation and adsorption of ions during the galvanic corrosion process, and enhance the inhibitory effect of the galvanic corrosion between molybdenite and scrap steel on molybdenite.

[0082] Implementation Case 5

[0083] The chalcopyrite sample in this implementation case was taken from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. The ore was first crushed to -1 mm and then sorted to remove impurities. The resulting concentrate was ground using a sealed test sample preparation pulverizer, and mineral particles with a diameter of -75 μm to +45 μm were collected by a vibrating screen for testing. Chemical analysis of the sample showed that the purity of chalcopyrite was 95.7%, with the remainder being gangue minerals such as silica.

[0084] The materials used in this implementation case to withstand galvanic corrosion were: pure iron scrap, low-carbon steel scrap, and high-carbon steel scrap. Before use, the surfaces of all scrap steel were ultrasonically cleaned and polished, and then wiped clean with a clean paper towel.

[0085] Treatment of galvanic corrosion:

[0086] Mineral processing wastewater was added to 1 g of chalcopyrite slurry to maintain a slurry moisture content of 33% during galvanic corrosion. An electric heater was used to maintain the slurry temperature at approximately 20 °C. The chalcopyrite slurry was placed between the clean surfaces of two horizontally placed scrap steel pieces, ensuring full contact between the slurry and the steel surfaces to induce galvanic corrosion. The galvanic corrosion process lasted 10 min. Every 5 minutes during the galvanic corrosion process, the slurry between the two scrap steel pieces was stirred uniformly once, for a total of 1 minute. After stirring, the slurry was evenly spread on the clean surface of the scrap steel to ensure full contact between the chalcopyrite slurry and the steel surfaces, allowing for sufficient galvanic corrosion. The time spent stirring was not included in the galvanic corrosion time. The chalcopyrite mineral sample after galvanic corrosion was obtained.

[0087] Flotation process:

[0088] A 1 g chalcopyrite sample treated with galvanic corrosion was transferred to a 45 ml flotation cell. An appropriate amount of water was added, and after stirring for a certain time, 15 g / t MIBC frother was added. The upper layer of foam was manually scraped off at a uniform speed. The flotation temperature was room temperature (20℃). The recovery rate was calculated based on the combined recovery of the concentrate and tailings after flotation drying. The experimental results are shown in Table 5.

[0089] Table 5

[0090]

[0091] As shown in Table 5, the present invention can significantly reduce the recovery rate of chalcopyrite.

[0092] Implementation Case 6

[0093] The pyrite sample in this implementation case was taken from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. The ore was first crushed to -1 mm and then sorted to remove impurities. The resulting concentrate was ground using a sealed laboratory sample preparation pulverizer, and mineral particles with a diameter of -75 μm to +35 μm were collected by a vibrating screen for testing. Chemical analysis of the sample showed that the purity of pyrite was 97.28%, with the remainder being gangue minerals such as silica.

[0094] The materials used in this implementation case to withstand galvanic corrosion were: pure iron scrap, low-carbon steel scrap, and high-carbon steel scrap. Before use, the surfaces of all scrap steel were ultrasonically cleaned and polished, and then wiped clean with a clean paper towel.

[0095] Treatment of galvanic corrosion:

[0096] Add mineral processing wastewater to 1 g of pyrite slurry to maintain a slurry moisture content of 50% during galvanic corrosion. Use an electric heater to maintain the slurry temperature at around 30°C. Place the pyrite slurry between the clean surfaces of two horizontally placed scrap steel pieces to ensure full contact between the pyrite slurry and the clean scrap steel surfaces, allowing galvanic corrosion to occur for 20 minutes. During the galvanic corrosion process, stir the slurry between the two scrap steel pieces uniformly every 5 minutes, and stir once during the galvanic corrosion process for 1 minute. After stirring, spread the slurry evenly on the clean scrap steel surface to ensure full contact between the pyrite slurry and the clean scrap steel surface, allowing pyrite and scrap steel to fully undergo galvanic corrosion. The time spent on stirring is not included in the galvanic corrosion time. Obtain the pyrite mineral sample after galvanic corrosion.

[0097] Flotation process:

[0098] A 1 g pyrite sample treated with galvanic corrosion was transferred to a 45 ml flotation cell, an appropriate amount of water was added, and after stirring for a certain period of time, 15 g / t MIBC frother was added. The upper layer of foam was manually scraped off at a uniform speed. The flotation temperature was room temperature (20℃). The recovery rate was calculated by combining the concentrate and tailings after flotation drying. The experimental results are shown in Table 6.

[0099] Table 6

[0100]

[0101] As shown in Table 6, the present invention can significantly reduce the recovery rate of pyrite.

[0102] Implementation Case 7

[0103] The talc mineral sample in this implementation case was taken from Hunan Province, China. The ore was first crushed to -1 mm and then sorted to remove impurities. The resulting concentrate was ground using a sealed test sample preparation pulverizer, and mineral particles with a diameter of -75 μm and +45 μm were collected by a vibrating screen for testing. The sample was chemically analyzed, and the talc purity was 96.12%, containing trace amounts of alumina and iron.

[0104] The materials used in this implementation case to withstand galvanic corrosion were: pure iron scrap, low-carbon steel scrap, and high-carbon steel scrap. Before use, the surfaces of all scrap steel were ultrasonically cleaned and polished, and then wiped clean with a clean paper towel.

[0105] Treatment of galvanic corrosion:

[0106] Mineral processing wastewater was added to 1 g of talc slurry to ensure that the slurry moisture content was 50% during the galvanic corrosion process. The slurry temperature was maintained at approximately 20 °C using an electric heater. The talc slurry was placed between the clean surfaces of two horizontally placed scrap steel pieces to ensure full contact between the talc slurry and the clean scrap steel surfaces for galvanic corrosion. The galvanic corrosion process lasted for 20 min. During the galvanic corrosion process, the slurry between the two scrap steel pieces was stirred uniformly every 5 minutes for a total of 3 stirrings, each lasting 1 minute. After stirring, the slurry was spread evenly on the clean scrap steel surface to ensure full contact between the talc slurry and the clean scrap steel surface. The time spent on stirring was not included in the galvanic corrosion process time. The talc mineral sample after galvanic corrosion treatment was obtained.

[0107] Flotation process:

[0108] 1 g of talc sample treated with galvanic corrosion was transferred to a 45 ml flotation cell, an appropriate amount of water was added, and after stirring for a certain period of time, 15 g / t MIBC frother was added. The upper layer of foam was manually scraped off at a uniform speed. The flotation temperature was room temperature (20 ℃). The recovery rate was calculated by combining the concentrate and tailings after flotation drying. The experimental results are shown in Table 7.

[0109] Table 7

[0110]

[0111] As shown in Table 7, the present invention has almost no effect on the floatability of talc. This may be because talc is an insulator and will not undergo galvanic corrosion when in contact with scrap steel. Therefore, its surface hydrophobicity is not affected and it still maintains good flotation performance.

[0112] In summary, this invention establishes a novel and efficient method for suppressing the flotation of sulfide ores, expanding new utilization pathways for scrap steel in sulfide ores flotation and increasing the utilization value of scrap steel. Simultaneously, it provides effective technical support for mineral processing plants, metallurgical plants, and related industries to reduce the hazards of flotation reagents and to recycle resources, thereby improving resource utilization. Furthermore, this invention is simple to operate, requires minimal equipment, has significant effects, saves costs, and protects the environment. In addition, this invention provides a new and feasible separation technology for the flotation separation of sulfide ores from insulating minerals such as talc, such as the separation of molybdenite and talc, and the separation of pyrite and coal.

[0113] The specific embodiments of the present invention disclosed above are only for illustrating the present invention. However, the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto, and many modifications and variations can be made accordingly, as described in this specification. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in the present invention, and within the spirit and principles of the present invention, should be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for inhibiting sulphide ore flotation by using scrap steel-sulphide ore galvanic corrosion, characterized by, It comprises the following steps: Step one, cleaning the surface of scrap steel material; the scrap steel material is easy to corrode scrap steel; Step two, adding beneficiation backwater to the sulfide ore sample to be treated to make a sulfide ore slurry; placing the sulfide ore slurry between the two scrap steels obtained in step one, so that the sulfide ore slurry fully contacts the clean surface of the scrap steel, adding beneficiation backwater to the sulfide ore slurry to be treated, and allowing the ore sample to fully undergo galvanic corrosion with the scrap steel, to obtain a sulfide ore sample after galvanic corrosion; Step three, transferring the sulfide ore sample obtained in step two to a flotation tank for flotation, controlling the constant stirring speed, adding flotation reagents for sulfide ore flotation after stirring for a certain time, to obtain flotation concentrate and tailings products; In step three, the flotation reagent is methyl isobutyl carbinol frother; In step three, the addition amount of the flotation reagent is 2-15 g / t; The sulfide ore is molybdenite and talc, and pyrite and coal; In step two, during the galvanic corrosion treatment process, the ore slurry between the two scrap steels is stirred evenly once every 3-10 minutes, and the stirring is performed 1-3 times during the galvanic corrosion, with a stirring time of 1-3 minutes, and after stirring, the ore slurry is evenly applied on the clean surface of the scrap steel.

2. A method of suppressing the flotation of sulphide ores by means of the galvanic couple effect of scrap steel-sulphide ores according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step one, the scrap steel material is pure iron scrap, low carbon steel scrap, medium carbon steel scrap, or high carbon steel scrap.

3. A method of suppressing the flotation of sulphide ores by means of the galvanic couple effect of scrap steel-sulphide ores according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step one, the surface of the scrap steel material is cleaned and treated, specifically: ultrasonic cleaning and polishing the surface of the scrap steel material.

4. A method of suppressing the flotation of sulphide ores by using the galvanic action of scrap steel-sulphide ores according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step one, for scrap steel materials with severe oxidation, shot blasting, high-pressure water jet rust removal, or laser rust removal methods are used to remove rust from the surface of the scrap steel.

5. A method of suppressing the flotation of sulphide ores by using the galvanic action of scrap steel-sulphide ores according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step two, the moisture content of the sulfide ore slurry during the galvanic corrosion process is controlled within 20%-60%, the galvanic corrosion temperature is 20-80℃, and the galvanic corrosion time is 10-50 minutes.

6. A method of suppressing the flotation of sulphide ores by the galvanic couple action of scrap steel-sulphide ores according to claim 5, characterized in that, In step two, an electric heater or a solar heater is used to maintain the temperature of the ore slurry within the range of 20-80℃ during the galvanic corrosion process.

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