The present invention relates to stable ionic xanthate compositions in aqueous solution for prolonged periods of time that are useful as collector reagents in the froth flotation process. The stable ionic xanthates of the present invention are dissolved in aqueous solution at their maximum water solubility (28-30%), being highly stable and safe ionic products, preventing the instability and flammability of the solid products which allows safe handling, both for operators in mining work and for the environment.

The present invention provides improved methods for purifying and/or removing multiply charged cations and suspended solids from water. In particular the process relates to an additive composition that has the appropriate surfactant characteristics for effectively removing multiply charged cations and suspended solids from an aqueous or oil/aqueous mixed phase via foam fractionation. According to the invention, a hydrophobically modified polymer that acts as an associative thickener is used in the presence of a source of alkalinity or anionic reactant as well as surfactant in appropriate ratios to facilitate multiply charged cation and suspended solids removal for water purification in any of a number of commercial, environmental and industrial applications.

The present invention provides improved methods for purifying and/or removing multiply charged cations and suspended solids from water. In particular the process relates to an additive composition that has the appropriate surfactant characteristics for effectively removing multiply charged cations and suspended solids from an aqueous or oil/aqueous mixed phase via foam fractionation. According to the invention, a hydrophobically modified polymer that acts as an associative thickener is used in the presence of a source of alkalinity or anionic reactant as well as surfactant in appropriate ratios to facilitate multiply charged cation and suspended solids removal for water purification in any of a number of commercial, environmental and industrial applications.

The present invention pertains to a composition comprising at least one compound of formula (I) and to the use of said composition for recovering value minerals from ore and other feedstocks by flotation. ##STR00001##