Potassium Ethylxanthate - Premium Mining Flotation Reagent

Potassium Ethylxanthate (KEX; CAS No. 140-89-6) has become a cornerstone reagent in the global mining and metallurgical sector, offering unmatched efficacy in the separation of valuable metal ores via flotation technology. With the rapid advancement of extractive metallurgy, the technological evolution of reagents like potassium ethylxanthate has enabled industries to achieve higher yields, cost-efficiency, and compliance with increasingly stringent environmental standards.

Overview of Potassium Ethylxanthate and Industry Trends

Potassium Ethylxanthate is a potent chemical collector used in the flotation of sulfide ores, notably copper, zinc, and lead. Its formula is C2H5OCSSK (Potassium Ethyl Xanthate Formula), and it is distinguished by its rapid collecting power and selectivity in complex mineral processing circuits. According to ResearchAndMarkets, the global xanthates market, spearheaded by potassium ethyl xanthate, is projected to show a CAGR of 6.5% between 2023 and 2030 with escalating demand from Asia-Pacific's mining industry.

Potassium Ethylxanthate Specifications & Technical Parameters

Manufacturing Process of Potassium Ethylxanthate (Process Flow Chart)

• 1. Raw Materials: Ethanol, KOH, Carbon Disulfide (CS₂), Water;
• 2. Reactor Charging: Ethanol reacts with KOH to form potassium ethoxide;
• 3. CS2 Addition: Potassium ethoxide reacts with carbon disulfide under controlled temperature (10–15°C), forming potassium ethylxanthate;
• 4. Filtration and Washing: The slurry is filtered and washed to remove byproducts and residual alkali;
• 5. Drying and Packaging: Granules/powder are dried in sealed units and packed in moisture-proof drums.

Technology Advantages and Material Excellence

• High Selectivity & Reaction Efficiency: Potassium ethylxanthate offers rapid absorption on sulfide mineral surfaces, improving flotation yields.
• Material Consistency: Manufactured via precision batch control, meets ISO 9001:2015 and ANSI/ASTM process standards.
• Customization: Fine granule or powder form, adjustable purity (≥90% standard; custom at 92–95% on request).
• Corrosion Prevention: Incorporation of stabilizers extends shelf-life up to 12 months (unopened, dry conditions).
• Safety & Sustainability: Fully REACH certified, non-toxic when handled as directed; minimal residue post-processing.
• High Solubility: Facilitates rapid dispersion and assimilation in flotation circuits, reducing energy consumption and processing time.

Potassium Ethylxanthate vs. Alternative Xanthate Reagents: Product Comparison Table

Manufacturers & Supplier Comparison (2024)

Custom Solutions & OEM Capabilities

• Custom Packaging: 25kg/50kg fiber drums, FIBC bags, palletization, anti-caking agent on request
• Formula Adjustment: Tailored purity (90–96%) based on ore mineralogy, with impurity reduction techniques
• Application Engineering: Technical lab support, in-field flotation performance optimization, digital dosage monitoring
• OEM & White Labeling: Bulk supply for global OEMs; compliant with ISO and customer-specific criteria
• Technical Training: On-site and online operator training for dosing, handling, and emergency procedures

Application Cases: Industry Scenarios & Client Experiences

Potassium Ethylxanthate Preparation: Step-by-Step Process Explanation

1. Batch Preparation: Carefully measure and combine ethanol and KOH at an optimized molar ratio; react in stainless steel reactor.
2. Reaction with Carbon Disulfide: CS₂ is introduced under chilled and inert (N₂) conditions, ensuring exothermic rate control (
3. Stirring and Reflux: Maintain agitation to ensure full conversion while monitoring pH and temperature for rate optimization.
4. Solid Separation: After the reaction, solution is filtered, water-washed to purity specification, and free alkali is neutralized.
5. Drying & Packaging: Moisture is reduced under vacuum or low-temp airflow before final packaging under a dry, nitrogenous atmosphere.
6. Quality Control: Each batch undergoes laboratory testing (purity, pH, moisture, solubility) as per ISO 9001:2015 protocols.

Professional FAQ: Potassium Ethylxanthate Technical FAQ

Delivery Time, Warranty & Customer Support

• Delivery Cycle: Global shipping within 7–15 business days for standard packaging; custom/OEM orders: 14–21 days.
• Warranty: All batches certified per ISO 9001:2015. Replacement guarantee for off-spec shipments as per contract.
• After-Sales: Dedicated technical manager, application technician visit, annual training, and regulatory documentation for compliance.
• Documentation: SDS, COA, Reach Certificate included—downloadable from the official KEX product page.

Conclusion & Industry References

Potassium Ethylxanthate stands out as an essential collector reagent, prized for purity, process customization, and environmental compliance. For modern mineral processing operations seeking industrial excellence, Potassium Ethylxanthate offers the optimal balance of performance, safety, and global support. Technical literature and anecdotal field feedback increasingly position it as the industry’s gold standard for sulfide ore flotation.