Processing of Refractory Gold-Bearing Sulfide Concentrates: A Review
Bauyrzhan Surimbayev, Ata Akçıl, Lyudmila Bolotova, S. Shalgymbayev, A.О. Baikonurova
Abstract
This review presents an updated data on various technologies for the processing of refractory gold-bearing sulfide concentrates. It primarily focuses on the hydrometallurgical treatment for sulfide mineral oxidation and gold extraction, including the use of bacteria, pressure oxidation, ultrafine grinding, and the Albion ProcessTM. The main operating plants that use hydrometallurgical technologies and their key characteristics are listed, along with schematics of primary processing routes. Besides, advantages and disadvantages of each technology are discussed, along with their cost comparisons.
Topics & Concepts
SulfideMineral processingRefractory (planetary science)Gold extractionRefining (metallurgy)Process engineeringMetallurgyEnvironmental scienceMaterials scienceEngineeringCyanideMetal Extraction and BioleachingMinerals Flotation and Separation TechniquesMineral Processing and Grinding