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What is Isopropyl Ethyl Thionocarbamate?
Isopropyl Ethyl Thionocarbamate, often abbreviated as IPETC, is an organic chemical compound belonging to the thionocarbamate family. It is primarily used as a reagent in mineral processing.
What is the main use of IPETC?
IPETC is widely used as a selective flotation collector in the mining industry, especially for sulfide ores like copper, lead, zinc, molybdenum, and nickel sulfides. It helps separate valuable minerals from waste rock.
How does IPETC work as a flotation collector?
IPETC adsorbs onto the surface of specific sulfide minerals, making them hydrophobic (water-repellent). This allows the mineral particles to attach to air bubbles in the flotation cell and rise to the surface as a froth, separating them from hydrophilic (water-attracting) gangue minerals. Its mechanism often involves chemical bonding with metal ions on the mineral surface.
What is the chemical formula of IPETC?
The chemical formula for IPETC is C6H13NOS, or more specifically (CH3)2CHOC(S)NHC2H5.
What does IPETC look like?
IPETC is typically a pale yellow to amber, dark brown, or orange-red oily liquid with a slight pungent odor.
What are the physical properties of IPETC?
It is an oily liquid, slightly soluble or insoluble in water, but soluble in organic solvents like ethanol, ether, benzene, and petroleum ether. Its density is slightly less than water (approx. 990-1004 kg/m³). It has a flash point around 81-140°C (sources vary) and a low freezing point (approx. -30°C).
Is IPETC acidic or basic?
It exhibits weak acidity. It exists predominantly in the thiono- form in acidic and neutral media and can convert to the thiol form in alkaline media.
What are the advantages of using IPETC in flotation?
IPETC offers good selectivity, especially against pyrite (iron sulfide), allowing for better separation of valuable minerals like copper and lead from iron. It can be effective at lower dosages compared to some other collectors and may reduce the need for pyrite depressants like lime. It’s also noted for good flotation response to tarnished or slightly oxidized minerals.
Does IPETC have foaming properties?
Yes, IPETC possesses some foaming ability, which can be advantageous in the flotation process, potentially reducing the need for additional frothing agents. Some sources state its foaming ability is superior to xanthates.
Is IPETC hazardous?
Yes, IPETC presents several hazards. It is classified as harmful if swallowed (Acute toxicity – Oral, Category 4), causes skin irritation (Category 2), and may cause eye irritation. Some safety data sheets also list it as a combustible liquid and potentially causing drowsiness or dizziness. It is also considered harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects.
What personal protective equipment (PPE) should be worn when handling IPETC?
When handling IPETC, wear appropriate PPE, including protective gloves (chemical impermeable), protective clothing, eye protection (safety glasses or goggles), and potentially a face shield and respiratory protection (like a mask or self-contained breathing apparatus if ventilation is inadequate or dealing with mists/vapors).
What are the first aid measures for IPETC exposure?
If Swallowed: Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. Get medical help immediately.
- If on Skin: Remove contaminated clothing immediately. Wash skin thoroughly with plenty of water and soap. If irritation occurs, get medical help. Wash contaminated clothing before reuse.
- If Inhaled: Move the victim to fresh air. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen. If not breathing, give artificial respiration. Get medical attention immediately. Do not use mouth-to-mouth resuscitation if ingested or inhaled.
- If in Eyes: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. Seek medical attention immediately.
How should IPETC be stored?
Store IPETC in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place. Keep it away from heat, sparks, open flames, and direct sunlight. Store away from incompatible materials like strong oxidizing agents and acids. Keep containers upright to prevent leakage.
How should IPETC spills be handled?
Contain the spill and prevent it from entering waterways or sewers. Stop the leak if safe to do so. Ventilate the area. Wear appropriate PPE. Absorb the liquid with inert material (like sand or earth) and place it in approved containers for disposal. Wash the spill area with water. Dispose of waste according to local regulations.
What are the fire-fighting measures for IPETC?
Use dry chemical, carbon dioxide (CO2), alcohol-resistant foam, or water spray to extinguish fires. Do not use a direct water jet. Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full protective gear. Cool exposed containers with water spray. 14 3 Prevent runoff from entering drains or waterways.
What is the environmental impact of IPETC?
IPETC is considered harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects. While some studies suggest it can biodegrade to some extent or be removed through oxidation processes (like photocatalysis or Fenton reaction), its release into the environment, especially water systems, should be avoided. Leakage from mining operations into wastewater is a concern.
Are there any synonyms or other names for IPETC?
Yes, common synonyms include O-Isopropyl-N-ethyl thionocarbamate, Isopropyl ethyl thiocarbamate, Z-200 (an old trade name), IPET, O-propan-2-yl N-ethylcarbamothioate, and Isopropyl ethyl thiourethane. Its CAS number is 141-98-0.
How is IPETC typically supplied or packaged?
IPETC is commonly supplied in plastic drums (e.g., 200kg net weight) or Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) (e.g., 1000kg net weight).
What is the typical purity of commercial IPETC?
Commercial grades often have a purity of ≥ 95.0%, with impurities like isopropanol and diethyl thiourea limited to certain maximum percentages (e.g., ≤ 2.5% and ≤ 1.0% respectively).
Is IPETC used in applications other than mining?
While its primary use is in mining flotation, some sources mention potential applications as an additive in polyurethane (PU) elastomers to enhance mechanical properties like elasticity, tensile strength, resilience, and resistance to environmental factors. However, its main industrial application remains as a flotation collector.
Is IPETC stable?
IPETC is generally stable under normal storage conditions. However, it is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents and acids. Vapors may form combustible mixtures with air and could travel to an ignition source and flash back.
