Definition of cationic reagent

In flotation, a surface-active substance that has the active constituent in the positive ion. Used to flocculate and to collect minerals that are not flocculated by the reagents, such as oleic acid or soaps, in which the surface-active ingredient is the negative ion. Reagents used are chiefly the quaternary ammonium compounds; e.g., cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide.

Ref: CCD, 2