Activation mechanism of DMTD for copper oxide component flotation in copper smelting slag: Experiments and DFT study

In industrial production, copper oxide ore can be effectively enriched using 2,5-dimercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazole (DMTD) as an activator. However, the effects of copper oxide components in the slag have not been studied. In this study, the chemical state and spatial distribution of activated species were characterized using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Density functional theory calculations clarified the molecular adsorption geometry of DMTD on CuO surfaces. In addition, zeta-potential characterization confirmed the reagent-mediated alteration of CuO surface electrical characteristics. Time-of-flight secondary mass ion spectrometry revealed the distribution characteristics of the activated products on the CuO surface. Finally, contact-angle analysis indicated the change in the surface wettability of CuO after treatment. This work establishes a theoretical foundation for ecofriendly processing of copper smelting slag and is of considerable significance for promoting efficient and economical Cu extraction.