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Cyanide : Oxygen Ratio for Leaching Gold in Sulphide Ores

John A. Rumball, Martin R. Houchin

2023encyanideoxygengoldleachingoptimisation

Abstract

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This study investigates the optimum cyanide to oxygen ratio for leaching gold from sulphide ores, contrasting with oxide ores where a ratio of approximately 106 mg/L NaCN to 10 mg/L O2 (6.9:1 by mole) is effective. The methodology includes electrochemical experimentation using a potentiostat and various measurements of dissolved oxygen to explore the effects of sulphide minerals on the leaching process. The results indicate that galvanic coupling of gold with conductive sulphides increases the required cyanide to oxygen ratio significantly. Specifically, leaching sulphide-rich ores at relatively high cyanide concentrations (3000 mg/L NaCN) and low dissolved oxygen levels (2 mg/L) may lead to cyanide diffusion control. This suggests that further reducing the dissolved oxygen may enhance the overall leach rate and recovery, contrary to traditional assumptions regarding oxygen's role in the process. These findings highlight the need for optimal ratios that can differ considerably from ideal models in order to improve leaching efficiency in practical applications.

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Cite This Work

@article{d011a240-9837-48dd-a3a8-61803c156bb8,
  title={Cyanide : Oxygen Ratio for Leaching Gold in Sulphide Ores},
  author={John A. Rumball and Martin R. Houchin},
  year={2023},
  language={en}
}
TY  - JOUR
TI  - Cyanide : Oxygen Ratio for Leaching Gold in Sulphide Ores
AU  - John A. Rumball
AU  - Martin R. Houchin
PY  - 2023
LA  - en
ER  -

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