Sodium Isobutyl Xanthate, Sodium Isobutyl Dithiocarbonate, Sodium Isobutyl Xanthogenate, SIBX, 25306-75-6

Sodium Isobutyl Xanthate, Sodium Isobutyl Dithiocarbonate, Sodium Isobutyl Xanthogenate, SIBX, 25306-75-6

Chemical Identity

• Name: Sodium Isobutyl Xanthate

• CAS No: 25306-75-6

• Formula: C₄H₉OCSSNa

• Appearance: Yellowish powder or granules, pungent odor, soluble in water

• Other Names: Sodium isobutyl dithiocarbonate, Sodium isobutyl xanthogenate

Mechanism of Action in Flotation

• SIBX is a collector reagent used in mineral flotation.

• It adsorbs onto sulfide mineral surfaces (lead, zinc, copper), making them hydrophobic.

• Hydrophobic particles attach to air bubbles and float, separating from gangue.

• With its isobutyl chain, SIBX provides moderate strength and balanced selectivity.

• Compared to SIPX, it has a slightly longer chain, giving it stronger collecting power.

Applications

• Lead ores → galena flotation

• Zinc ores → sphalerite, often with activators like copper sulfate

• Copper ores → chalcopyrite and other sulfides

• Mixed sulfide ores → when both strength and selectivity are required

Advantages

• Balanced strength and selectivity → effective for multiple sulfide ores

• Versatile use → suitable for lead, zinc, and copper ores

• Stronger than SIPX → broader mineral affinity

Limitations

• Not as strong as PAX → may be insufficient for very refractory ores

• Environmental risk → decomposition can release carbon disulfide (CS₂), toxic

• Hazardous substance → requires strict handling and storage protocols

Xanthate – Sectoral Suitability Table