Sadan Kelebek

Title: Innovations of Sadan Kelebek in Sulphide Mineral Processing

Introduction

Sadan Kelebek is a notable inventor based in Levack, California, recognized for her contributions to the field of mineral processing. With a total of two patents to her name, Kelebek has developed innovative processes that enhance the separation of sulphide minerals, particularly in the context of non-ferrous metal recovery.

Latest Patents

Kelebek's latest patents include a multi-stage froth flotation process aimed at improving the concentration of sulphide minerals or middlings containing valuable non-ferrous metals such as nickel, cobalt, and copper. This process uniquely operates without relying on specific reagents as pyrrhotite depressants. Instead, it utilizes the natural pulp environment with low REDOX potentials generated by mild steel grinding media during the grinding step preceding froth flotation. The concentrate from the flotation stages, where the REDOX potential exceeds a predetermined value, is recycled back to the grinding step or earlier flotation stages for further processing.

Another significant patent is her selective flotation process for the separation of mono/multi-metallic sulphide minerals from substantial amounts of iron sulphides, primarily pyrrhotite. This process involves a conditioning stage with at least one water-soluble sulphur-containing inorganic compound, followed by further conditioning with nitrogen-containing organic chelating agents, such as polyethylenepolyamines. This innovative approach allows for the selective recovery of valuable non-ferrous metal minerals while effectively depressing iron minerals.

Career Highlights

Kelebek is currently employed at Falconbridge Limited, where she applies her expertise in mineral processing to advance the company's technological capabilities. Her work has significantly impacted the efficiency and effectiveness of sulphide mineral separation processes.

Collaborations

Throughout her career, Kelebek has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Peter F. Wells and Simon O. Fekete. These partnerships have fostered a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and the sharing of ideas in the field of mineral processing.

Conclusion

Sadan Kelebek's contributions to the field of sulphide mineral processing through her innovative patents demonstrate her commitment to advancing technology in this area. Her work not only enhances the efficiency of mineral recovery but also showcases the importance of collaboration in driving innovation.