Description
Chemical Properties and Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Potassium Amyl Xanthate (PAX) |
| Chemical Formula | C6H11OS2K |
| CAS Number | 2720-73-2 |
| Appearance | Pale yellow to gray-yellow granules |
| Purity | ≥ 90% |
| Moisture Content | ≤ 4% |
| Free Alkali | ≤ 0.2% |
| Solubility | Soluble in water |
| Packing | 110kg iron drum / 850kg wooden box |
| Storage | Cool, dry, and ventilated place |
PAX is available in powder, pellet, or granular forms depending on the customer’s process requirements.
Application and Usage
🧪 1. Collector in Flotation Processes
PAX is primarily used as a collector in the flotation of metal sulfide ores. It offers:
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Strong collection ability for sulfide minerals like chalcopyrite, sphalerite, and galena.
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Good selectivity in complex ores containing multiple minerals.
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Enhanced recovery rates in low-grade ore beneficiation.
🧱 2. Use in Metallurgical Industry
In addition to mineral flotation, Potassium Amyl Xanthate is also used in:
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Hydrometallurgical processes
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Separation of copper and molybdenum
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Activation of certain oxides during processing
Its ability to chemically bind to sulfide surfaces helps in forming hydrophobic films that allow particles to attach to air bubbles and rise for easy separation.
Advantages of Potassium Amyl Xanthate (PAX)
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✅ High flotation efficiency for sulfide and complex ores
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✅ Strong collecting ability and excellent mineral selectivity
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✅ Cost-effective for large-scale mining operations
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✅ Adaptable to different pH conditions and ore types
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✅ Easy to dissolve and apply in industrial processes
Storage and Safety
PAX should be stored in:
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A cool, dry, and well-ventilated area
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Away from heat sources, flame, and moisture
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Containers should be tightly sealed to prevent degradation
⚠️ Handling Precautions
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Use appropriate PPE (gloves, goggles, mask)
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Avoid inhalation or skin contact
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Wash thoroughly after handling
PAX is classified as a hazardous material, so proper labeling and transportation compliance is necessary under applicable international standards.
Conclusion
Potassium Amyl Xanthate (PAX) is a critical flotation reagent with proven effectiveness in recovering metal sulfides from ores. With its strong collecting power, excellent selectivity, and broad adaptability, PAX continues to be an essential material in mineral processing industries across the globe. Whether used in copper concentration, zinc beneficiation, or molybdenum separation, Potassium Amyl Xanthate delivers consistent, high-performance results that enhance process efficiency and profitability.
