Skip to main content
Basic Technical IVT Commonly tested

Cyanide Heap Leaching Residue

noun

Pronunciation: /ˈsaɪənɑɪd hip ˈliːtʃɪŋ ˈrɛzɪˌduː/

Solid and liquid remnants from industrial gold and silver extraction processes using cyanide solutions, which may retain residual cyanide and require comprehensive detoxification and containment during reclamation. Proper management prevents cyanide mobilization into groundwater and surface water.

Plain English

Leftover material from gold mining using cyanide that may still contain toxic cyanide compounds needing safe disposal.

Etymology & History

Origin languageGerman/English/French
Rootcyanide from German Zyanid + heap from Old English + leaching from leach + residue from Latin residuum
First recorded use1980s
Usage frequencyUncommon

Usage

"The reclamation scope included destruction of cyanide heap leaching residue through oxidation treatment."

Style guide notes: Always reference relevant cyanide management codes (e.g., International Cyanide Code) when discussing residue handling.

Also known as

cyanide tailings heap leach residuals

Contrasted with

cyanide-free ore non-toxic extraction byproduct

Related Terms

Frequently Asked Questions

What risks does cyanide residue pose during reclamation?

Residual cyanide can leach into groundwater, volatilize as hydrogen cyanide gas, and harm wildlife and human health.

How is cyanide residue destroyed or neutralized?

Methods include oxidation with hydrogen peroxide, alkaline chlorination, biodegradation, and encapsulation in sealed containment.

Why Test Candidates on This?

Cyanide residue management is essential for senior-level reclamation professionals and environmental compliance specialists.

Required skill level: Senior

Editors from these organisations have used our services since 1998

Reuters BBC Oxford University Press Penguin Random House Springer Microsoft Suncor Energy United Nations Fisher Investments IBM The Home Depot KODAK CHEVRON