Sodium isopropyl xanthate

Sodium isopropyl xanthate (CAS 140-93-2), also known commercially as Proxan-sodium and Aeroxanthate 343, is a selective flotation collector used in the concentration of sulfide ores. It functions by adsorbing onto mineral surfaces, rendering them hydrophobic so they attach to air bubbles and separate from gangue material during froth flotation processes.

In copper, lead, and zinc sulfide processing, it selectively collects target minerals at relatively low dosage rates, improving concentrate grade and recovery across the circuit. Gold and silver operations use it to float sulfide-associated precious metals where the ore body requires a short-chain xanthate collector for optimal mineral separation.

It is also applied in nickel and molybdenum circuits, where its selectivity over non-sulfide gangue reduces downstream processing costs and improves overall plant efficiency. Blended collector formulations in complex polymetallic ores incorporate it alongside other xanthates or dithiophosphates to broaden mineral response across varying ore grades.

The product is supplied as a yellow to pale-green powder or granules, with granular form preferred for safer handling and reduced dust exposure on site during mixing. Standard commercial purity is typically 90% or higher, with technical-grade product the norm for mining applications. Packaging is available in bags and bulk quantities.