The absorption behaviour of carboxymethyl cellulose polymers at the hydrophobic solid/aqueous interface has been studied using graphite as a model solid. The effect of the polymer molecular weight and concentration, the pH and ionic strength of solution on the surface properties of graphite have been established through the adsorption, electro-kinetic, and collectorless flotation measurements. The results have revealed a pronounced influence of surface impurities on the absorption of carboxymethyl cellulose onto graphite.