Abstract

CANAHUIRE P., Rosario et al. Determination of the adsorption of metallic gold by means of diatomes sintered in the process Merrill Crowe. Rev. Bol. Quim [online]. 2021, vol.38, n.1, pp.36-45.  Epub Apr 30, 2021. ISSN 0250-5460.  https://doi.org/10.34098/2078-3949.38.1.4.

Diatomite is present in the mining industry especially in the Merril Crowe process in clarifying the Pregnant solution and in the press filters which allow the gold precipitate to be harvested for subsequent smelting. The following research was based on diatomaceous earth and its gold adsorption capacity in clarifying Pregnant solution. Initial physico-chemical tests were carried out for the Pregnant solution (pH, turbidity, measurement of the strength of cyanide and metals such as copper, gold and silver). To test the diatomite, it was washed, dried and sieved on a 200 mesh. The sample was sintered (thermal activation) at 700 ° C and pulverized. The pulp from the plant was filtered to obtain the solution with which the tests were carried out: stirring at 50 and 60 rpm for 6 to 8 hours and a pH between 10 and 11. The sample was sedimented to later obtain the solid (diatomite), which was dried for subsequent smelting and recovery of the adsorbed precious mineral. The results showed a decrease of the initial concentration of 23% in gold. These results helped us to analyze that the agitation speed of the clarification must be minimal to avoid the loss of gold in the Pregnant solution. The activated diatomite was analyzed with scanning electron microscopy before and after adsorption, showing the difference in its morphology.

Keywords : Diatomeas; Merril Crowe; Sinterizacion; Fundición..

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