Aqueous Ionic Xanthate Compositions for Stable Mineral Flotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Xanthates used in mineral flotation processes are highly flammable and unstable in aqueous solutions, leading to the generation of toxic compounds like carbon disulfide and hydrogen sulfide, which pose safety and environmental hazards, and lose effectiveness within 24 to 26 hours, necessitating immediate use and complex handling logistics.
Innovation Solution
Development of stable ionic xanthate compositions in aqueous solution by dissolving xanthates at their maximum solubility concentration (28-30%) with nitrogenous bases and low molecular weight alcohols, maintaining the R—O—CS2 functional group's interaction capability, thereby enhancing stability and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If xanthates are used in aqueous solution for mineral flotation, then they provide effective collecting properties, but they decompose rapidly producing toxic carbon disulfide and hydrogen sulfide gases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical parameters of xanthates by converting them into ionic forms through reaction with strong bases (NaOH, KOH). This parameter change transforms the molecular structure to contain ionic groups, which fundamentally alters the stability characteristics in aqueous solution, preventing decomposition and toxic gas generation while maintaining collecting properties
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates composite ionic xanthate structures by combining xanthate molecules with ionic groups from strong bases. These composite ionic structures exhibit enhanced stability in aqueous environments compared to conventional molecular xanthates, eliminating the decomposition issue while preserving the hydrophobic functional group's collecting capability
2Stability of the object's composition
If solid xanthates are stored and handled, then they maintain stability, but they are highly flammable and require complex safety logistics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of xanthates by converting them from solid molecular form to aqueous ionic solution form. This parameter change eliminates flammability since ionic aqueous solutions do not combust, while the ionic structure maintains chemical stability and prevents decomposition
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful flammability property of solid xanthates into a beneficial non-flammable aqueous ionic solution. The same chemical structure that provides collecting properties is transformed into an ionic form that eliminates fire hazards while maintaining stability
3Ease of manufacture
If liquid xanthates are produced by wet alkali method, then production cost is reduced and operation is simplified, but the product is unstable and must be used immediately
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by ensuring complete ionic conversion of xanthates through controlled reaction with strong bases and maintaining optimal pH levels. This parameter control transforms the unstable liquid product into a stable ionic solution that can be stored for extended periods while maintaining collecting properties
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary ionic conversion and stabilization treatments during the production process itself, ensuring that the xanthates are fully converted to stable ionic forms before storage. This preliminary action eliminates the need for immediate use while maintaining production simplicity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The ionic xanthates exhibit high stability for up to 10 months, eliminating flammability and toxicity risks, allowing safe handling, storage, and efficient metallurgical performance without refrigeration, reducing operational costs and environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
Development of stable ionic xanthate compositions in aqueous solution by dissolving xanthates at their maximum solubility concentration (28-30%) with nitrogenous bases and low molecular weight alcohols
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to stable ionic xanthate compositions in aqueous solution for prolonged periods of time that are useful as collector reagents in the froth flotation process. The stable ionic xanthates of the present invention are dissolved in aqueous solution at their maximum water solubility (28-30%), being highly stable and safe ionic products, preventing the instability and flammability of the solid products which allows safe handling, both for operators in mining work and for the environment.