Xanthate is a chemical compound that is used as a collector in the froth flotation process to enhance the recovery of valuable minerals from ore. The process of processing in the xanthate involves several steps, including preparation, application, and recovery.

Preparation:

The xanthate compound is prepared by reacting an alkyl halide with sodium hydroxide to form a xanthate salt. Commonly used alkyl halides include methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl chlorides, while sodium hydroxide is the preferred base for this reaction. The resulting xanthate salt is then dissolved in water to form a xanthate solution.

Application:

The xanthate solution is typically added to the ore slurry in the flotation cell. The xanthate molecules adsorb onto the surface of the mineral particles and form a hydrophobic layer. This hydrophobic layer causes the mineral particles to attach to air bubbles, which rise to the surface of the flotation cell to form a froth layer.

Recovery:

The froth layer containing the mineral particles is then removed from the flotation cell and collected. The xanthate molecules on the surface of the mineral particles are still attached to the bubbles and are carried away with the froth. The froth is then treated to remove any remaining water and to recover the valuable minerals.

Overall, processing in the xanthate involves preparing the xanthate compound, applying it to the ore slurry, and recovering the valuable minerals in the froth layer.