Potassium Ethyl Xanthate

Potassium Ethyl Xanthate is an organosulfur compound widely used as a flotation collector in mineral processing. It appears as a yellow to pale yellow crystalline powder or granules, highly soluble in water, and stable under dry, alkaline conditions. It has a strong odor and decomposes in acidic conditions, releasing carbon disulfide.
It is primarily used in the mining industry for the flotation of sulfide ores such as copper, zinc, and nickel, where it helps separate valuable minerals from ore. It acts as a surface-active agent, selectively binding to metal sulfide particles to enhance recovery efficiency. It is also used in hydrometallurgical processes and chemical research applications. Due to its reactivity, it must be handled carefully under controlled pH conditions. Its effectiveness in mineral beneficiation makes it an essential reagent in metallurgical operations.