Selective inhibition of acrylic acid-2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid copolymer in the flotation separation of fluorite from dolomite

• AA-AMPS is first introduced as a selective depressant for dolomite in fluorite flotation, achieving a significant increase in CaF2 grade from 49.85% to 89.60% in artificial mixed mineral tests. • The depression mechanism involves strong chelation of AA-AMPS with Ca and Mg active sites on dolomite, preventing subsequent NaOL adsorption and enhancing surface hydrophobicity difference between fluorite and dolomite. • The study provides a novel, eco-friendly organic depressant alternative to traditional inorganic reagents, addressing the need for efficient separation of fluorite from dolomite in low-grade ores. • The findings offer a promising pathway for improving fluorite recovery in strategic emerging industries, with potential for industrial application in mineral processing.