Efficient flotation separation approach of apatite from calcite for phosphate up-grading using phosphorylated starch macromolecules as a selective depressant.

Physico-chemical similarities of surface proprieties of calcite and apatite make their separation challenging. Effective flotation separation requires sustainable depressants to mitigate environmental consequences associated with traditional chemical reagents. Here, for the first time we explore the potential of phosphorylated starch (PS) derived from potato waste as a green and effective depressant.