Abstract: The ash of burnt inflorescence of Elaeis guineensis (oil palm tree) was found to contain 99% potassium hydroxide (caustic potash). The crystals of the caustic potash were used to synthesize potassium ethylxanthate (KEX) at optimum temperature of about 45°C. The flotation tests carried out showed that over 200% recovery was achieved during the concentration of galena mineral. Physical characterisation and ultraviolet spectroscopic analysis showed the presence of an alkali xanthate as the collector specie.