The effect of copper ions on the surface chemistry of galena in near-neutral and alkaline solution

•Copper ions were predominantly bonded to the S sites on the galena surface to form Cu(I) sulfides.•The secondary adsorption mechanism of copper ions on the galena surface involves a copper-lead ion exchange mechanism.•NaEX adsorbed on the surface of galena treated with copper ions to form cuprous xanthate.•NaDDTC adsorbed on the surface of galena treated with copper ions to form cuprous diethyldithiocarbamate.