Learn about molybdenum flotation
The high lime pulp alkalinity usually employed for the flotation of copper ores inhibits molybdenum flotation. Optimum pulp pH for Molybdenite flotation is probably 7.5 to 8.0 while most copper ores respond better in the pH range of 10.0 to 12.0, especially when they contain a considerable quantity of pyrite. The choice of the proper pulp pH thus must be a compromise based on the economics of each individual ore. In most instances, this means maintaining a minimum pulp pH, but one high enough to abtain optimum copper recovery at a satisfactory concentrate grade.
After the bulk concentrate has been cleaned to remove iron and gangue minerals it is treated by either:
- Depressing the molybdenum with dextrin or other organic colloid and floating the copper, or.
- Floating the molybdenum after depressing the copper.
Both methods have been used at various points within a single mill flotation process.