How Does the Heap Leaching Process Recover Gold from Low-Grade Ore?
For highly oxidized, low-grade gold ore, the most cost-effective and efficient recovery method is gold heap leaching process.
Gold Heap leaching is a widely used hydrometallurgical technique for extracting gold through a simple and environmentally controlled process.
Typical heap leaching process flow:
Stockpiling → Leaching → Carbon Adsorption → Smelting
Main Heap Leaching Process Steps
- Crushing the Ore
Crush ore to a suitable size (generally 20–50 mm)—not too fine for effective percolation. - Preparing the Base Pad
Compact soil or concrete base lined with an impermeable geomembrane.
Add drainage channels to collect the leachate safely. - Layering the Ore
Place crushed ore in 1–2 m lifts (layers).
Each layer is slightly compacted and leveled for stability. - Building the Heap
Heap height: 10–20 m depending on ore type and leach efficiency.
Keep gentle slopes (~30°) to maintain structural safety. - Installing the Irrigation System
Use drip or sprinkler systems on top of the heap.
Ensures uniform percolation of the leaching solution through the ore pile. - Collecting and Processing the Solution
The pregnant solution (metal-bearing liquid) is collected at the base.
Gold is recovered by adsorption, precipitation, or electro-winning.
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