Research on flotation mechanism of wolframite activated by Pb(II) in neutral solution

Hydration models of wolframite, lead ions, benzo hydroxamic acid ions (BHA), and their co-adsorption models were created to simulate the adsorption processes using the density functional theory (DFT). Pure minerals flotation tests, analysis of reagent adsorption capacity and infrared spectrum of products were carried out. The results indicate that the mechanism of Pb(II) activation in BHA flotation of wolframite in a neutral solution environment was probably due to the traction from Pb(II) on the H2Os around the site of the manganese on the wolframite surface reduced the hydration, making them more easily adsorbed by BHA. Therefore, the activation of Pb(II) on BHA adsorption is indirect.