Patent ID: 8931642
Filing Date: 2015-01-13
Classification: B03D

Abstract:
1. A method of extracting a targeted metallic mineral from an ore comprising the steps of: a) Providing an ore slurry containing the metallic mineral in oxide, carbonate, silicate or halide form; b) Activating the ore slurry by adding sodium thiosulfate and sodium metabisulfite, whereby the targeted metallic mineral forms an intermediary metal complex with the sodium thiosulfate and sodium metabisulfite; c) Introducing one or more metal release components into the ore slurry; whereby the targeted metallic mineral is released from the intermediary metal complex to form a metal sponge; d) Subjecting the metal sponge to a flotation process, whereby the targeted metallic mineral is drawn out of the ore slurry and thereby extracted from the ore.