LAUSR

Abstract The presence of hydroxylated metallic sites on mineral surfaces promotes the adsorption of polysaccharides on mineral surfaces. In this study, the interaction of calcium chloride and sodium lignosulfonate on talc was investigated through flotation tests and zeta potential, contact angle, adsorption measurements, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy studies. Artificial mixed mineral flotation tests indicated that the combined action of calcium chloride and sodium lignosulfonate can reduce the content of talc in the flotation concentrate. Zeta potential and contact angle measurements showed that the combined inhibitory effect of calcium chloride and sodium lignosulfonate on talc is more effective than the individual effects of these reagents. The adsorption densities of calcium chloride and sodium lignosulfonate on talc revealed that the addition of Ca2+ contributes to the adsorption of sodium lignosulfonate on the talc surface. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy provided evidence in support of a chemical interaction between Ca2+, sodium lignosulfonate and talc. The findings of this study are of great significance for reducing the Mg grade in the flotation concentrate of chalcopyrite.