Improved pyrite rejection during fine coal flotation can be achieved by chemical pretreatment of the coal prior to flotation. The process involves conditioning the suspension with potassium monopersulfate or other peroxy compounds followed by conventional flotation. The ambient-temperature treatment seems to improve the hydrophobic character of certain low-rank coals as is evident from induction time measurements and bench-scale flotation experiments. In addition, the chemical pretreatment leads to an improvement in ash rejection and to enhanced depression of pyrite.