Gold processing technology

Gold processing technology refers to the methods used to extract gold from its ore. The most common techniques used in the processing of gold include:

Gravity Separation: This is the oldest method used for gold recovery. It is based on the separation of mineral particles by the difference in their specific gravity. Gold particles are heavier than most other minerals and are thus concentrated at the bottom of the sluice box or jig.

Flotation: This method involves the use of chemicals to separate gold particles from other minerals. The ore is first ground to a fine powder and then mixed with water and chemicals. The chemicals attach to the gold particles, making them hydrophobic (repel water) and causing them to rise to the surface where they can be collected.

Cyanidation: This is the most common method used for gold recovery. It involves the use of cyanide to dissolve the gold from the ore. The gold is then extracted from the cyanide solution using activated carbon or zinc precipitation.

Carbon-in-Pulp (CIP) and Carbon-in-Leach (CIL): These methods involve the use of activated carbon to adsorb gold from the cyanide solution. The activated carbon is then separated from the gold-laden solution, and the gold is recovered by stripping the carbon with a hot alkaline solution.

Heap Leaching: This method involves the stacking of crushed ore on a pad and then applying a solution of cyanide to the heap. The solution percolates through the heap, dissolving the gold, which is then recovered using activated carbon or zinc precipitation.

Refining: This is the final step in gold processing and involves the smelting of the gold concentrate to remove impurities and produce gold bullion.

Overall, gold processing technology continues to evolve, with new techniques and methods being developed to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact.