Sodium isobutyl xanthate

Sodium isobutyl xanthate (CAS 25306-75-6), also known as sodium O-isobutyl dithiocarbonate, is a xanthate collector used in the froth flotation of sulfide and oxide ores. It selectively binds to target mineral surfaces, enabling their separation from gangue material in mineral processing operations. In copper, lead, and zinc sulfide flotation circuits, it acts as a primary collector, improving mineral recovery rates at the concentrate stage. Gold and silver ore processors use it to float sulfide-associated precious metals where selectivity against iron sulfides is required.

It is also applied in the flotation of nickel and molybdenum ores, particularly where moderate chain-length collectors outperform shorter or longer xanthate alternatives. Some operations blend it with other collectors or frothers to optimize grade-recovery curves. This chemical is particularly effective for complex polymetallic ores where precise separation is necessary. Sodium isobutyl xanthate is supplied as a yellow to pale powder or granular solid for industrial use.

It is available in technical grade, the standard specification for mineral processing applications. Packaging typically ranges from 25 kg bags to bulk quantities suited to mine-site consumption volumes. The product ensures high efficiency in mineral recovery while maintaining the necessary selectivity for high-grade concentrates. It remains a staple reagent in the global mining and metallurgy industry for diverse ore types.