Potential Response of Pyrite Electrode in the Presence of Metal Ions

Abstract

Potential response of pyrite in an electrochemically active environment was supposed to shed light on its redox behavior in the presence of Cu+2, Pb+2 and Fe+2 ions, the commonly existing metal ions in flotation pulps of complex sulfide ores. This study was conducted to elucidate the effect of metal ions on the electrochemical behavior of pyrite. Mineral surface was polarized between pH 3 11 for 30 minutes in open atmosphere condition. Redox potential data revealed that redox reactions ceased almost in a few minutes, and system came to equilibrium. Potential response of pyrite did not vary significantly possibly due to the nobility of mineral. Effect of metal ions both on redox potential and solution pH was measured in free to change condition. Metal ions decreased pH and increased potential. Their effects became more apparent when starting the polarization from alkaline pH. Cu+2 showed its effect especially on the rest potential. It was thought to adsorb on mineral surface forming Cu-S like species. Pb+2 could only manipulate redox potential because of the formation of porous Pb-oxides on pyrite when starting the polarization from alkaline pH. Discriminating effect of Fe+2 was observed at higher dosages due to oxidation of Fe+2 ions to Fe+3-oxyhydroxides. Excess H+ ion release during chemical-electrochemical processes caused sharp decrease in solution pH.