The introduction of supplemental oxygen into the gold leaching process, typically achieved through dedicated equipment, enhances the rate and efficiency of gold dissolution. This equipment supplies concentrated oxygen to the leaching environment, optimizing the chemical reactions necessary for gold extraction. A common application involves delivering the produced oxygen directly into a cyanide solution used to leach gold from ore.
The application of such technology offers several advantages. Elevated oxygen concentrations accelerate the oxidation of gold, leading to faster leaching kinetics and reduced processing times. This can result in increased gold recovery and improved overall operational efficiency. Historically, atmospheric oxygen was the primary source for this oxidation; however, the limited solubility of oxygen in water often constrained the leaching rate. On-site oxygen generation overcomes this limitation, offering a more controlled and readily available supply of the necessary reactant.
