The Main Features of the Natural Sulphides Surface Modification Under the Impact of High-Power Electromagnetic Pulses

Abstract

Surface changes in naturally occurring metal sulphides (pyrite, arsenopyrite, sphalerite, chalcopyrite, galena and molybdenite) due to the treatments from high – power electromagnetic pulses (HPEMP) at varying times were studied using XPS. Analysis of the obtained results revealed common patterns and differences in surface transformations. The transformations were found to include two main stages. The first stage were observed at low treatment intensities (up to N ~ 10 3 pulses). At this stage formation and accumulation in the surface layer of the nonstoichiometric sulphide phase, oxides and hydroxides, as well as elemental (polysulfide) sulphur and / or metastable sulphur species (thiosulfate, sulphite) were observed. The second stage (N ≥ 3 · 10 3 pulses) is characterized by the removal of sulphur species and renewal of the mineral surface (sulfidization). The application of HPEMP treatment to improve flotation selectivity is supported by single-mineral flotation tests. Changes in floatability as a result of HPEMP treatment are principally explained by surface phase changes.