The behaviour of mineral matter in fine coal flotation using saline water

► Saline water increased the recovery of mineral matter in coal flotation. ► The increase in entrainment was more pronounced for fine particles. ► Entrapment played a more important role in de-ionised and saline water. ► Saline water significantly increased the entrapment of fine mineral matter. ► Saline water enhanced particle aggregation associated with entrapment.