Considering Specific Ion Effects on Froth Stability in Sulfidic Cu-Ni-PGM Ore Flotation

The mining and mineral processing of Cu-Ni-PGM sulfide ores in South Africa occurs in semi-arid regions. The scarcity of water resources in these regions has become one of the biggest challenges faced by mineral concentrators. As a result, concentrators are forced to find ways through which they can manage and control their water usage. The recycling and re-use of process water in mineral concentration plants has therefore become a common practice. This practice is beneficial in that it reduces reliance on municipal water and harnesses compliance to stringent environmental regulations on freshwater usage. This approach also offers a better response to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for the mining industry, as water and its preservation form part of the SDGs. This practice could, however, be somewhat concerning to a process operator because recirculated water often has higher concentrations of ions compared to fresh or potable water. This is because an unintended change in the process water quality may affect critical aspects of flotation such as the stability of the froth. This issue has led to the need for both the mining industry and researchers in the field to find the ions in process water that have the greatest impact on platinum group minerals.