Modifiers are commonly used in flotation to alter the surface properties of minerals and improve flotation conditions. Based on their properties, they are classified into four categories: inhibitors, activators, media modifiers, and flocculants.
(1) Inhibitors are reagents that reduce the floatability of minerals. When flotating a useful mineral, inhibitors are added to prevent harmful impurities from floating; when mixing multiple metals, inhibitors are also needed to separate them one by one.
(2) Activators are reagents used to create a state on the mineral surface that facilitates the adsorption of collectors. They can also remove inhibitory films that hinder collecting from the mineral surface.
(3) Media modifiers mainly adjust the pH of the pulp, disperse and agglomerate, and eliminate harmful ions.
(4) Flocculants mainly eliminate the influence of fine mud and harmful ions in the pulp, causing them to connect in series to form flocs and precipitate.