Sodium Butyl Xanthate (SBX) Supplier South Africa

What Is Sodium Butyl Xanthate?

Sodium butyl xanthate (SBX) is a C4 alkyl xanthate flotation collector, produced by reacting n-butanol with carbon disulfide in the presence of sodium hydroxide. It occupies an intermediate position in the xanthate collector series — stronger than shorter-chain xanthates (ethyl, isopropyl) but more selective than longer-chain amyl xanthates, making it a commonly used all-around collector in sulphide flotation. SBX is produced in both n-butyl and isobutyl forms; n-SBX is slightly stronger while isobutyl forms tend toward better selectivity.

Copper, Lead, and Zinc Applications

SBX is extensively used in copper porphyry flotation circuits, where it provides good chalcopyrite recovery with acceptable selectivity against pyrite at moderately alkaline pH. In lead-zinc circuits, it collects galena well and can float sphalerite with copper or zinc sulphate activation. In gold circuits, SBX is used as a secondary or supporting collector alongside higher-strength xanthates. Its selectivity advantage over SAX makes it suitable for circuits where concentrate grade is a priority alongside recovery.

Supply Details

Terracore Chemicals supplies SBX in pellet form in 25 kg bags and fibre drums. We stock both n-butyl and isobutyl grades and advise on selection based on circuit requirements, ore mineralogy, and plant pH. Technical data sheets are available on request.