The effect of Zn2+ on calcite flotation and the effect of lattice ions on calcite flotation in presence of Zn2+ were investigated through microflotation tests, zeta potential measurements, and surface analysis. The results show that Zn species inhibit the interaction between the reagents and calcite through the formation of surface precipitation coating on the calcite surface, when the concentration of Zn2+ is higher than 10(-5) mol/L. The effect of Zn species on calcite flotation can be decreased with the increase of Ca2+, instead of CO32-. In presence of Ca2+ and CO32-, the change of floatability suggests that Zn species can be desorbed with an optimum ratio of Ca2+/CO32-. The zeta potential measurements and surface analysis show the existence of a mixture of hydrozincite and zinc hydroxide products on mineral surface, and zinc surface coating can be desorbed due to the strong chemical adsorption of Ca2+ and the formation of hydrozincite in the bulk solution. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.