The effect of acrylamide-co-vinylpyrrolidinone copolymer on the depression of talc in mixed nickel mineral flotation

► Hydrophobic balance is critical for the polymer adsorption on talc and its depression. ► Guar has a very high adsorption selectivity for talc comparing to pentlandite mineral ore. ► Acrylamide based copolymer has limited adsorption selectivity for talc and pentlandite mineral ore.