Isopropyl Ethyl Xanthogen Formate (IPEXF) Supplier South Africa

What Is Isopropyl Ethyl Xanthogen Formate?

Isopropyl ethyl xanthogen formate (IPEXF) is a xanthogen formate ester — a collector type distinct from conventional xanthates or dithiophosphates, based on the xanthogen dithioformate functional group. Xanthogen formates were developed specifically to improve selectivity and hydrophobicity of the collector layer formed on precious metal and PGM mineral surfaces compared to standard xanthate collectors. They adsorb on sulphide and native metal surfaces through a combination of chemical and physical adsorption mechanisms, and can produce more strongly hydrophobic collector layers than equivalent xanthate additions.

PGM and Gold Flotation

IPEXF is primarily used in PGM and gold flotation circuits as a specialty co-collector alongside primary xanthate or DTP collectors. Its improved surface hydrophobicity can enhance recovery of fine PGM mineral particles and native gold that are incompletely recovered by conventional collectors. In PGM circuits, IPEXF is sometimes used to improve the flotation of PGM minerals in oxidised near-surface ore zones where conventional collector-mineral surface interactions are weakened. Its slightly different collector chemistry relative to xanthates can also be beneficial for recovering specific PGM mineral phases.

Supply Details

Terracore Chemicals supplies IPEXF in 200 L drums to PGM and gold mining operations. Technical data and dosage recommendations for use alongside primary collector systems are available on request.