Optimization of Environmentally Friendly Flotation Reagents for Quartz–K-Feldspar Separation Using Response Surface Methodology

Selective separation of quartz and feldspar is vital for high-purity silicate raw materials but is challenging due to similar surface chemistries. Conventional flotation typically requires high reagent dosages and hazardous chemicals, raising environmental and economic issues. This study proposes a sustainable flotation strategy using green, bio-derived reagents to improve quartz–feldspar separation by eco-friendly bio-derived reagents. Sodium oleate, a fatty acid collector, was used with low-toxicity modifiers to create synergistic systems. Flotation performance was tested by reagent dosage and pH, with mineral characteristics analyzed via X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) and Particle Size Distribution (PSD). Results showed that the investigated reagent systems improved the differential flotation response between quartz and K-feldspar. Under the optimized flotation conditions (pH 9.24), quartz recovery reached 84.01%, demonstrating that environmentally friendly reagent combinations can achieve favorable flotation performance while reducing chemical consumption. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to optimize flotation variables like pH and reagent dosage, developing a model to predict conditions for favorable flotation response, enabling systematic process improvement. These findings highlight reagent-system optimization as an eco-friendly method for mineral beneficiation, aligning with green chemistry and sustainable practices.