Basic Cyanide Chemistry: An Essential Guide for Gold and Silver Leaching

Part of the SME Mining Fundamentals Series

Delve into the world of cyanide chemistry and its pivotal role in gold and silver leaching with Basic Cyanide Chemistry. This comprehensive handbook offers an introductory exploration of cyanide chemistry in relation to gold and silver leaching. It equips readers with basic knowledge about cyanide's interactions with gold, silver, and other metals, enhancing understanding of these processes and their influence on leach solutions and ore processing.

Basic Cyanide Chemistry begins with foundational material on cyanide chemistry in the absence of metals, providing a strong theoretical base. It then progresses to discuss cyanide's interactions with gold and silver, and explores its relationship with several other metals commonly encountered in leaching processes. This is followed by a detailed examination of specific leach solutions, taking into account comprehensive solution analysis and the reactions of sulfur species, especially in the context of high cyanide and oxygen consumption observed in ores containing sulfide minerals.

The handbook offers a thorough classification of cyanide species and insightful commentary on their analysis and concludes with a detailed overview of the physical properties of sodium cyanide and essential aspects of cyanide safety. While intended as an introductory text, the book is rich in technical references, encouraging readers to delve deeper into specific topics.

Basic Cyanide Chemistry is an indispensable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the complex and fascinating world of cyanide chemistry in the mining industry. With its clear explanations, practical insights, and comprehensive coverage, it is a must-have for students and professionals alike, aiming to elevate their knowledge in the field of gold and silver leaching.

Mike Botz is a consulting process engineer with Elbow Creek Engineering based in Montana (United States). He has worked for more than 30 years on mining projects worldwide in roles that involve process modeling, laboratory test work, production forecasting, and plant design and commissioning. Much of his experience is with cyanidation processes for gold and silver recovery, particularly those with challenging chemistry issues. He enjoys writing and has authored and coauthored several technical papers and books. Botz holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Montana State University and a Master of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Purdue University.