The surface of (zinc(II) sulfide (ZnS), Nickel(II) sulfide (NiS), Gold(III) sulfide (Au2S3) and etc.) is hydrophobic, so it’s easy for flotation. Xanthate is the common collector for the flotation of galena. When the pH is high, the galena is easily floated by the ethyl xanthate. The optimum pH for flotation is 7-8, which can usually be adjusted with sodium carbonate.

zinc (II) sulfide Ore

Nickel (II) sulfide Ore

Gold (III) sulfide Ore

zinc (II) sulfide Flotation

Nickel (II) sulfide Flotation

Gold (III) sulfide Flotation