Abstract
Gold is an important by-product of many porphyry copper ore deposits. Precise mineralogical characterization of the unfloated gold in what is typically very low grade (i.e., <0.1 g/t Au) flotation tails provides a clear picture of the carriers and causes for gold losses in these large tonnage operations, thereby identifying the means to reduce such losses. Analyzing quantitative gold deportments in flotation tails enables the carriers of unfloated gold to be ranked, the most appropriate carrier identified, and test work designed to address specific causes of gold losses. Typically, 10–20% of the gold in the tails can be recovered without additional grinding or by regrinding a rougher or cleaner scavenger concentrate.
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References
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For more information, contact S. Chryssoulis, Amtel, 100 Collip Circle, Suite 205, London, Ontario, Canada N6G 4X8; (519) 858-5037; fax (519) 858-5038; e-mail amtel@skynet.ca.
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Chryssoulis, S. Using mineralogy to optimize gold recovery by flotation. JOM 53, 48–50 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11837-001-0015-x
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11837-001-0015-x