Sulfide flotation aid

The invention provides a method of improving a flotation separation process. The method involves an organophosphorus compound, a material previously thought to only be of use in controlling scale deposit on surfaces of equipment used in cyanide leaching. In the invention the organoposphorus compound is added to the flotation separation process for improved sulfide mineral separation. Not only does the addition of the organophosphorus compound improve the overall recovery of sulfide complexed metals in flotation, but by doing so it also reduces the energy requirements and adds other efficiencies to other downstream ore processing and refining steps. This has the added benefit of helping to preserve the environment.