Abstract
The beneficiation complexity of the lead-zinc ore from the Shalkiya deposit is associated with the fine dissemination of galena and sphalerite, a high zinc module, and the presence of carbonaceous material. The flotation kinetics of carbonaceous material, galena, and sphalerite under different reagent regimes have been studied. Apolar and sulfhydryl collectors, as well as flotation depressants for carbonaceous material based on lignosulfonates, have been tested. The composition and surface properties of the carbonaceous material were analyzed using elemental composition analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), infrared (IR) spectroscopy, and acid-base centers characterization. A rational collective-selective flotation scheme has been substantiated.