Solution Chemistry Of Cyanide Leaching Systems

The DIAGRAM computer program has been used to develop stability diagrams such as Eh-pH, log [CNI-pH, and log [Me]-pH for the systems Me-CN-H 0 where Me = Au, Ag, Fe, Zn, Cu, Ni, Co. More complex 2 diagrams involving sulfur- and arsenic-containing species are also presented. With the aid of these diagrams, a discussion is presented of the solution conditions (e.g. pH, [CN], [CNS], Eh) vhich influence gold and silver extraction in cyanide solutions. Special emphasis is given to the effects of ore minerals or calcination products, such as pyrrhotite, pyrite, arsenopyrite and hematite on gold-silver dissolution. Application of the stability diagrams to solution treatment operations such as cementation is also indicated.