Recent advances in the treatment of refractory gold ores

After a century of overwhelming dominance in the extractive metallurgy of gold, the cyanid process is coming under pressure due to the increasing importance of refractory gold ores and growing environmental concerns. This paper aims to review the recent research and development advancements in alternative leaching methods for gold ores to mitigate the environmental impact associated with cyanide use. A wide variety of methods are currently under investigation, some of which have already reached industrial application. The methodology encompasses a comprehensive review of the latest progress in techniques such as thiourea leaching, pressure leaching applications, and biological methods for the preoxidation of gold ores. Experimental results associated with the implementation of these innovative methods are presented, showcasing their application to various types of gold ores. The findings underline the significant potential of these alternative extraction processes and their benefits over traditional methods, such as reduced environmental impact and improved efficiency. This research not only highlights current advancements but also sets the stage for future exploration in sustainable gold metallurgy.