Cyanide Heap Leaching
nounPronunciation: /ˈsaɪənаɪd hip ˈliːtʃɪŋ/
An extraction process where crushed ore is stacked and treated with cyanide solution to dissolve precious metals, commonly used in gold and silver mining. The process requires proper management of leftover cyanide residues during site reclamation.
Plain English
A mining method that uses cyanide solution sprayed on stacked ore to extract gold and silver, leaving hazardous residues.
Etymology & History
Usage
"The reclamation team had to neutralize cyanide heap leaching residues before wildlife habitat restoration could begin."
Style guide notes: Always specify cyanide type (WAD-cyanide, thiocyanate) when discussing residual hazards in reclamation contexts.
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Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
How does cyanide heap leaching work?
Cyanide solution is sprayed on stacked ore to dissolve precious metals, which are then separated and recovered.
What reclamation challenges does it create?
Leftover cyanide residues are toxic to wildlife and must be neutralized before site can be declared safe.
Why Test Candidates on This?
Essential knowledge for assessing environmental hazards and designing decommissioning strategies at precious metal mine sites.
Required skill level: Mid