Concentration: froth flotation, magnetic separation, leaching
Metallurgy and Extraction (General Principles) · Chemistry
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Study notes
How does froth flotation concentrate galena (PbS)? Step 1: Powdered ore + water + pine oil + xanthate collector. Step 2: Collector coats PbS particles → hydrophobic; gangue stays hydrophilic. Step 3: Air blown in → bubbles; PbS clings to bubbles, floats as froth. Step 4: Froth skimmed off → concentrated PbS; gangue sinks. Selective wetting!