Gold Extraction
Methods
Gold extraction is the process of obtaining gold from its natural
sources, typically found in ore deposits. Different methods are
employed depending on the geological context and gold
concentration. Two prominent methods are amalgamation and
chlorination, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages.
by 22Y124 - PRAVIN G K
Amalgamation Process
1 Crushing and Grinding
The gold ore is crushed and ground into a fine
powder, increasing the surface area for mercury to
interact with.
2 Amalgam Formation
The powdered ore is mixed with mercury, which
readily forms an amalgam with gold due to their high
affinity.
3 Separation and Recovery
The amalgam is separated from the remaining ore by
filtration or decantation. Mercury is then removed
from the amalgam by heating, leaving pure gold
behind.
Amalgamation Equation
The amalgamation process is based on the chemical reaction between gold (Au) and mercury (Hg), forming gold
amalgam (AuHg). The equation representing this process is:
Au + Hg → AuHg
Chlorination Process
Ore Preparation Chlorination Reaction Gold Recovery
The gold ore is crushed and ground Chlorine gas (Cl2) is introduced to The gold chloride solution is
to a fine powder, increasing its the ore, reacting with gold to form treated with a reducing agent,
surface area and improving the gold chloride (AuCl3), which is such as zinc, to precipitate pure
efficiency of chlorination. soluble in water. gold, which is then collected and
refined.
Chlorination Equation
The chlorination process involves the reaction of gold (Au) with
chlorine gas (Cl2) to form gold chloride (AuCl3). The equation
representing this process is:
2Au + 3Cl2 → 2AuCl3
Advantages of Amalgamation
1 Simplicity 2 Efficiency
Amalgamation is a Mercury readily reacts
relatively simple and with gold, enabling
straightforward process, efficient extraction even
requiring minimal from low-grade ores.
equipment and expertise.
3 Cost-Effectiveness 4 Historical Significance
Amalgamation is a cost- Amalgamation has been
effective method, widely used historically,
particularly for small- contributing to gold
scale operations. discoveries and economic
development.
Disadvantages of
Amalgamation
Environmental Hazards Health Risks
Mercury is highly toxic and Exposure to mercury during
its release into the amalgamation can cause
environment poses serious various health problems,
risks to human health and including neurological
ecosystems. disorders and respiratory
issues.
Mercury Recovery Challenges
Complete mercury recovery is difficult, leading to
environmental contamination and potential health risks.
Advantages of Chlorination
High Gold Recovery
Chlorination effectively extracts gold, achieving high recovery rates from various ore types.
Reduced Environmental Impact
Modern chlorination processes minimize mercury usage and environmental pollution, promoting sustainability.
Versatile Application
Chlorination is suitable for a wide range of gold ore types, including those with low gold concentrations.
Disadvantages of Chlorination
High Capital Investment Chlorination requires
specialized equipment and
infrastructure, leading to
significant initial costs.
Operational Complexity Chlorination processes are
more complex than
amalgamation, requiring
skilled operators and careful
management.
Environmental Regulations Chlorine gas is a hazardous
substance, subject to strict
regulations and safety
protocols.
