Improved analysis and assessment of flotation chemicals in mining

Flotation reagents are used in the mining industry as chemical additives to improve the efficiency of metal extraction, but can be harmful to aquatic organisms. The aim of the project is to develop better measurement methods, and to examine how the chemicals degrade and if they affect aquatic environments. The results will contribute to more reliable environmental assessments.

The aim of the project is to improve the basis for environmental assessment of flotation chemicals in water bodies affected by mining, with a particular focus on the collector reagents xanthates and thiocarbamates. During 2026, IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute will develop analytical methods to measure the concentrations of these substances in water samples that are difficult to analyze, and will investigate how they degrade. Laboratory tests will also be carried out to study how the chemicals affect crustaceans and other aquatic organisms under realistic conditions.

Reducing the risk of affecting lakes and streams

IVL is leading the project and is in charge of the experimental design, chemical analyses and interpretation of the results. Boliden, the Viscaria Mine and the Björkdals Mine are contributing with funding, water samples and expertise. Pelagia Nature Environment and GS Ekotox are providing specialist knowledge on benthic fauna and ecotoxicological testing.

This new knowledge will enable more reliable monitoring of chemical concentrations, and reduce the risk of harm to lakes and streams. The results will be presented in a publicly available final report, a scientific manuscript and a concluding seminar for invited stakeholders.