Sodium Isopropyl Xanthate (SIPX) is a highly effective, selective collector widely used in the flotation of sulfide minerals such as copper, lead, zinc, molybdenum, nickel, and gold. Thanks to its short isopropyl carbon chain, SIPX offers excellent selectivity against iron sulfides (pyrite, pyrrhotite) while maintaining strong collecting power, making it ideal for complex and precious-metal sulfide ores.

 

Technical Specifications

ITEMS SPECIFICATIONS
Drying Synthetic
Appearance yellow or grey powder or rod-like pellet yellow or grey powder or rod-like pellet
Purity ≥90.0% ≥84.0%
Free Akali ≤0.2% ≤0.5%
Moisture and Volatile ≤4.0% ≤10.0%

 

Packaging and Storage

  • Net weight 50kg plastic woven bag or 110kg steel drum.
  • Store in a cool, dry, ventilated warehouse, to be protected from damp, torrid sunlight and fire.

 

Key Benefits & Features of Sodium Isopropyl Xanthate (SIPX)

  • High selectivity for copper, molybdenum, and precious metals.
  • Low dosage requirement compared to longer-chain xanthates.
  • Excellent performance in the depression of iron sulfides.
  • Fast flotation kinetics and high recovery rates.
  • Environmentally friendlier profile among traditional xanthates (lower carbon chain).
  • Pelletized form reduces dust and improves handling safety.

 

Main Applications of Sodium Isopropyl Xanthate (SIPX)

  • Froth flotation of copper sulfide ores (Cu, Mo, Zn, Pb, Ni).
  • Molybdenum sulfide (molybdenite) flotation.
  • Lead-zinc complex sulfide ores.
  • Gold and platinum group metal (PGM) bearing sulfide ores.
  • Bulk copper-molybdenum flotation circuits.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Sodium Isopropyl Xanthate used for?
SIPX is primarily used as a collector in the froth flotation of non-ferrous sulfide minerals including copper, molybdenum, zinc, lead, gold, and PGMs.

Is SIPX selective against pyrite?
Yes. Due to its short isopropyl chain, SIPX is one of the most selective xanthates against iron sulfides (pyrite and pyrrhotite), making it ideal for producing high-grade copper and molybdenum concentrates.

Does SIPX produce a lot of froth?
No. SIPX generates moderate to low froth volume compared to longer-chain xanthates, which is advantageous when using frothers like MIBC or pine oil.

Is Sodium Isopropyl Xanthate environmentally friendly?
Among traditional xanthates, SIPX is considered relatively environmentally friendly due to its shorter carbon chain and lower persistence. The degradation products are isopropyl alcohol and carbon disulfide, both of which break down naturally.

How does SIPX compare to Sodium Ethyl Xanthate (SEX) and Potassium Amyl Xanthate (PAX)?
SIPX offers better selectivity than SEX and slightly weaker collecting power than PAX, making it ideal for complex ores where selectivity against pyrite and gangue is critical.

How should SIPX be stored?
Store in a cool, dry, ventilated warehouse away from heat sources and strong oxidizers. Keep containers sealed and avoid prolonged exposure to moisture.

 

Where can I buy high-quality Sodium Isopropyl Xanthate (SIPX)?

You can contact us via email [email protected] for offers and bulk orders.