Sodium Diisobutyl Dithiophosphinate

Sodium Diisobutyl Dithiophosphinate (Na-DIBDTP) (CAS 13360-78-6) is a critical reagent in the mineral processing industry, functioning as a highly effective and selective flotation collector. It is typically supplied as a white to pale yellow free-flowing powder or granular solid with a faint sulfidic odor. Belonging to the class of dithiophosphinates, Na-DIBDTP is prized for its ability to adsorb strongly and selectively onto the surface of sulfide minerals (like chalcopyrite and sphalerite). This strong, non-reversible adsorption promotes high flotation efficiency, resulting in excellent metal recovery and superior concentrate grades compared to traditional xanthate or dithiophosphate collectors.

Basic Information of Na-DIBDTP

CAS No.:	13360-78-6
EC No.:	236-419-2
Linear Formula:	C8H18NaPS2
Molecular Weight:	232.32
Appearance:	White to pale yellow free-flowing powder or granular solid
Odor:	Faint sulfidic
Boiling Point:	378.5℃[at 101 325 Pa]
Density:	1,14 g/cm3
Solubility:	Highly soluble in water; slightly soluble in alcohol. Insoluble in non-polar organic solvents.
Flash Point:	93 °C
Chemical Structure:

Application Overview

Na-DIBDTP is used primarily in the mineral flotation process, where its selectivity and strength are paramount for optimizing separation economics:

• Copper Flotation: Highly effective in the flotation of copper sulfide minerals (e.g., chalcopyrite, bornite), often resulting in higher recovery rates and better selectivity against iron sulfides (pyrite).

• Polymetallic Ores: Essential for separating complex polymetallic ores containing mixtures of copper, zinc, nickel, and iron. Its selectivity allows for differential flotation to produce clean, separate concentrates.

• Nickel and Cobalt Sulfides: Provides excellent collecting power for nickel and cobalt sulfide minerals, often used in conjunction with other collectors to maximize recovery in primary and secondary circuits.

• Precious Metal Recovery: Used in the flotation of gold and silver associated with sulfide matrices, improving overall precious metal recovery into the concentrate stream.

• Improved Kinetics: Offers faster flotation kinetics than many traditional collectors, which can increase mill throughput and reduce processing time.