PRECON~1

The complex mineralogy of the Porgera resource significantly influences the process selection for the recovery of refractory gold and silver. This study aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of acid pressure oxidation as the only commercially proven method for achieving the necessary level of pyrite oxidation, which is critical for enhancing gold recovery. The methodology includes an examination of the preconcentration of sulphides to minimize acid consumption and carbon dioxide production during the oxidation process. Key findings indicate that the optimal degree of sulphide preconcentration is ultimately dictated by the relationship between concentrate sulphur grade and the corresponding gold recovery. Moreover, the research evaluates the mining stages involved in the preconcentration and oxidation of the Porgera ores. The discussion encompasses how these processes affect the recovery of precious metals and emphasizes the technical and economic relevance of pretreating concentrates prior to oxidation. The results reveal that even lower grade concentrates can be effectively treated, resulting in an overall improvement in gold recovery, thereby demonstrating the feasibility of the proposed processes.