Solution mining of precious metals using aqueous, sulfur-bearing solutions at elevated temperatures

Abstract

Metallic forms of gold and other precious metals can be dissolved and transported (mined) using an aqueous sulfide-bearing leach solution. Maximum sulfur fugacities are achieved in sulfide-bearing solutions under approximately neutral pH and relatively reducing conditions. The optimum chemical conditions are achieved specifically by heating an aqueous sulfide solution such as NaHS, Na.sub.2 S, H.sub.2 S, (NH).sub.4 S, or other suitable forms to temperatures of at least about 100.degree. C. in the presence of excess elemental sulfur. The sulfide dissociates in the solution to form aqueous sulfide species including polysulfide and HS.sup.- which lixivate gold and other precious metals.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.