Description
Potassium Isobutyl Xanthate (KIBX or SIBX) is a specialized organic compound widely recognized as an effective collector in flotation processes. With chemical formula C₆H₁₁OS₂K, it selectively adsorbs onto sulfide mineral surfaces—such as chalcopyrite, galena, and sphalerite—improving hydrophobicity and enabling efficient separation from waste materials (gangue). Its high purity, rapid performance, and enhanced stability make it a first-choice flotation agent in global mining operations. For comprehensive information on flotation collector principles and applications, refer to this detailed guide on xanthate collectors by 911Metallurgist. Our flotation reagent systems provide complete solutions for mineral processing operations.
Technical Grade KIBX Specifications & Chemical Properties
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C₆H₁₁OS₂K |
| CAS Number | 13598-36-3 |
| HS Code | 2930.90.90 |
| Appearance | Yellow crystalline powder / granules |
| Purity | ≥ 95% (Technical Grade) |
| pH (1% Solution) | 9.5–10.5 |
| Moisture Content | ≤ 1.0% |
| Particle Size | Powder: 100–200 mesh; Granular: 2–4 mm |
| Solubility | Soluble in water, alcohols |
| Packaging Options | 25 kg moisture-resistant woven bags, 500 kg jumbo bags, bulk containers |
Copper & Lead Flotation Applications
✅ Copper Sulfide Recovery
- Targets chalcopyrite and bornite effectively
- Enhances selectivity and recovery rates in copper circuits
- Compatible with copper-molybdenum separation processes
✅ Lead Mineral Processing
- Efficiently collects galena in flotation circuits
- Compatible with pH adjustment and auxiliary reagents
- Optimized for lead concentrate production
Zinc & Polymetallic Ore Processing
✅ Zinc Flotation Operations
- Ideal for sphalerite recovery and concentration
- Achieves high-grade zinc concentrates consistently
- Suitable for complex zinc-bearing ores
✅ Multi-Metal Flotation Circuits
- Balanced collector for mixed sulfide ores containing Cu, Pb, Zn
- Widely used in multi-stage flotation circuits
- Effective in polymetallic ore processing plants
For detailed technical information on froth flotation fundamentals and collector mechanisms, this comprehensive resource on flotation technology provides essential insights into xanthate collector performance. Explore our mining chemical range for complete mineral processing solutions.
Key Performance Benefits of KIBX Collector
✔ High Selectivity Performance – Precisely targets sulfide minerals, minimizing gangue collection
✔ Consistent Quality Standards – Uniform performance across batches due to high purity specifications
✔ Formulation Flexibility Options – Available in powder and granular form for tailored plant use
✔ Fast Flotation Kinetics – Increases recovery rates in short cell retention times
✔ Process Compatibility – Works effectively with depressants, activators, and pH conditioners
✔ Safe, Durable Packaging – Moisture-resistant and suitable for various global climates
Application Guidelines & Dosing Parameters
Recommended Dosage Rates
- Copper flotation: 10–50 g/t depending on ore characteristics
- Lead/Zinc flotation: 5–30 g/t for optimal recovery
- Dissolve in softened water at pH ~10 before conditioning
- Add after pH and activating reagents for optimal adsorption
- Monitor feed concentration to balance recovery and selectivity
Quality Control & Testing Procedures
- Purity verified via chromatographic techniques and analysis
- Moisture content, pH, and solubility verified against standards
- Bench flotation testing using Denver cell methodology
- Recovery & concentrate grade measured for each ore type
Storage & Handling Safety Requirements
Storage Conditions
- Store cool (<30 °C), dry, well-ventilated environment
- Keep away from moisture, acids, and incompatible chemicals
- Use original moisture-resistant packaging for preservation
Handling Precautions
- Use PPE: gloves, dust masks, eye protection equipment
- Avoid creating dust—use closed systems and ventilation
- Provide eyewash and shower stations in handling environment
- Follow standard spill cleanup and disposal regulations
Packaging Options & Global Supply Chain
Standard Packaging Solutions
- 25 kg moisture-proof woven bags with protective liner
- 500 kg jumbo bulk bags for large-scale operations
- Bulk containers for continuous mining operations
- Inner liners for high-humidity climate conditions
International Logistics Network
- Climate-controlled warehouses across South Africa
- UN-approved containers for regulated transport compliance
- Compliant transport mechanisms across SADC region
- Export capabilities to global mining markets
Technical Support & Training Services
Flotation Process Optimization
- On-site and remote flotation performance evaluation
- Collector dosage calculations and trial support programs
- Circuit optimization and efficiency improvement
Training and Guidance Programs
- Safe handling and flotation reagent usage training
- Circuit optimization workshops for plant personnel
- QA/QC procedure training and implementation
Regulatory Compliance & Safety Standards
Mining Chemical Standards
- Supplied with SDS (GHS compliance) and COA documentation
- Conforms with mining safety and environmental guidelines
- Meets international quality standards for flotation reagents
Transport Safety Protocols
- Packaged and shipped per UN/DOT regulations for hazardous materials
- Environmental protocols and aquatic toxicity testing
- Renewable/recyclable packaging options available
Why Choose Our Premium KIBX Collector
✔ Proven Collector Excellence — High-grade concentrate and recovery performance
✔ Batch-to-Batch Consistency — Reliable reagent performance and quality
✔ Robust Supply Chain — Guaranteed volume availability and timely delivery
✔ Technical Backing — Expert support for core flotation optimization needs
✔ Competitive Pricing — Optimized logistics and direct sourcing advantages
✔ Safety First — From packaging to field application safety standards




