How to Buy PAX: Specs, Activity and Packing

Potassium amyl xanthate (PAX, CAS 2720-73-2) is the strongest common xanthate – and the most expensive of the simple xanthates, because amyl alcohol costs more than ethanol or isopropanol. That makes buying it well a question of activity, dose and fresh stock. This guide covers what to confirm.

1. The specification to confirm

Property	What to check
Appearance	Pale-yellow to yellow solid / granules
Activity (assay)	The active content you pay for (commonly 90% min; confirm your limit)
Free alkali	Affects pH and handling; keep it low
Form	Granules (low dust) or powder

As with every xanthate, compare quotes on cost per unit of active, not price per tonne of product.

2. Pay for the dose, not just the price

PAX is priced above SIPX and SIBX because of its alcohol. The way to control cost is to use it where its strength pays off – the rougher and scavenger, where maximum recovery is wanted – and to keep the dose under control, because over-dosing cuts selectivity and wastes reagent. Pair it with a selective collector (SIPX/SEX) in the cleaner rather than pushing PAX dose higher.

3. Degradation: buy to consumption

Order against monthly usage – xanthates lose activity with moisture, heat and time.
Rotate stock (FIFO), keep it sealed, cool and dry.
Prefer scheduled deliveries over one bulk shipment.
Make up solutions fresh each shift.

4. Packaging

Packaging	Notes
PP/PE woven bags with inner liner (e.g. 25 kg)	Common export pack; liner keeps moisture out
Drums	Sturdier and more moisture-proof
Jumbo bags	For bulk handling and high consumption

PAX is hygroscopic; the inner liner and a dry store matter more than the outer pack.

5. Documents and supplier checklist

Per-batch COA showing activity and free alkali.
SDS for handling, storage and transport.
Moisture-protected packaging and scheduled delivery.
FOB or CIF quote to your port with lead time.
Support on blending PAX with more selective collectors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What activity does PAX come in?

Commonly 90% min; grades vary, so confirm the activity and free-alkali limits you need and check them on the batch COA.

Why is PAX more expensive than SIPX?

Because it is made from amyl alcohol, which costs more than isopropanol (SIPX) or ethanol (SEX). Use PAX where its strength pays for itself – rougher and scavenger stages.

How should PAX be stored?

Sealed, cool and dry, and used within its shelf life. It is hygroscopic and degrades with moisture and heat.

How is PAX packed?

Moisture-barrier PP/PE bags with an inner liner, drums, or jumbo bags.