Enhancing Sulfidization and Flotation of Smithsonite Using Eco-Friendly Triethanolamine: Insights from Experimental and Simulation Studies

Abstract

Triethanolamine (TEA) is a promising eco-friendly alternative to inorganic ammonia for enhancing surface sulfidization and flotation recovery of smithsonite. Micro-flotation experiments revealed an enhancement in smithsonite recovery to 95.21% with TEA modification, comparable to the results obtained using ammonia. The mechanisms behind the ability of TEA to enhance the sulfidization process were investigated through surface analysis and molecular dynamics simulations. TEA modification increased the content of sulfidization products, the proportion of crucial S22− in adsorbed products, and the thickness and size of the sulfidization product layer. The complexation of TEA with Zn sites formed positively charged Zn–TEA complexes that adsorb onto the smithsonite surface. These complexes promoted negatively charged HS− adsorption, creating a multi-layered adsorption structure. Moreover, TEA modification reduced the total energy required for the sulfidization. These findings open up new possibilities for using eco-friendly reagents in mineral processing, highlighting the potential of TEA in green mineral processing practices.