Tupasol ATO and Guarani P3M: tannins for mineral processing

Froth flotation is process of separating minerals from gangue by taking advantage of differences in their hydrophobicity. Hydrophobicity differences between valuable minerals and waste gangue are increased through the use of surfactants and wetting agents. The mining industry has always looked for clean and efficient alternatives in mineral flotation. Since the 1930’s tannins have been used as natural inhibitors in combination with collector agents (carboxylase).

Silvateam has developed a range of dispersants and coagulants consisting of natural compounds. These compounds are rich in tannic acid obtained from quebracho wood, which is adapted to modern flotation systems thanks to the many phenolic hydroxyl groups present along its molecular chain. The hydroxyl groups react with the surface of the mineral by changing the surface charge and allowing it to react selectively with collectors. Silvateam tannin extracts are user friendly, the process requires each type of ore to be extracted and tested in simple laboratory tests to determine the optimal dosage. If necessary it is possible to add other additives to improve the flotation process. The absorption of quebracho tannin on the surface of the mineral varies depending on the chemical and physical properties of the mineral, the presence of soluble cations (calcium, iron, aluminium and other sulphur compounds), the pH of the process and the type of collectors used.

Tupasol ATO is as a natural depressant used worldwide for the extraction of polymetallic nodules. Tupasol ATO is rich in quebracho tannins and other chemical additives such as dextrin, carboxymethylcellulose, sodium cyanide and other surfactants. Tupasol ATO acts as a depressant combining undesired metals and facilitating the recovery of those remaining.

For the dispersion of high content active material like clay, Silvateam has developed Guarani P3M, an ecofriendly tannic dispersant that prevents the absorption of fine particles by neutralising its electrical charges. Guarani P3M is user friendly and works in a wide pH range and it does not interfere with other additives used.

Tupasol ATO and Guarani P3M are easy to dissolve in cold water and are sold in powder form, in 25kg bags or 500kg big bags.