Gold Smelting

Join Jason in the smelting lab as he embarks on an exciting experiment to extract gold from sulfide ores! In this captivating video, Jason tackles the challenge of smelting gold-bearing sulfides, which require additional chemistry to release the gold from minerals like iron pyrite and other sulfides.

Watch as Jason meticulously tests a new method in his quest to optimize the gold recovery process. With careful experimentation and precise techniques, he aims to determine the most effective approach for extracting gold from sulfide-rich ores.

Delve into the intricacies of gold smelting as Jason shares his insights and strategies for maximizing gold yield. Despite facing the complexities of sulfide ores, Jason remains determined to unlock the full potential of these gold-rich samples.

Will Jason's latest experiment prove to be the breakthrough he's been seeking? Join us as we uncover the results and unravel the mysteries of gold smelting!

Don't miss out on this fascinating journey into the world of gold smelting. Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on Jason's latest experiments and discoveries in the smelting lab!

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Keywords: Gold Smelting, Smelting Gold, Sulfide Ores, Gold Extraction, Gold Recovery, Chemistry Experiment, Gold-bearing Sulfides, Pyrite, Precious Metals.

Hashtags: #GoldSmelting #SulfideOres #GoldExtraction #PreciousMetals #ChemistryExperiment #GoldRecovery #SmeltingLab

[ericmcc]

I think a time-lapse video of the matte converting to powder would be very interesting to watch.

[leeroychang]

I'm so invested in you, Jason! We're worlds apart in location and careers but, oh boy, do I love watching your videos! Great as always!

[billyingram]

Sulphur (s2) has a reduction potential of -0.407, which goes more negative with decreased ph up to -3.1 with two free electrons, you need twice the oxidiser with oxidation potential >+407 to make oxidation of S2 the primary reaction, per atom of Sulfur. Most are explosive at assay temperatures. Interestingly iron reduces the Sulfur with its superior -0.7 and balanced two electron transfer forming FeS. I believe your artificially creating a VMS type geology making matte, and like VMS exposures it rapidly hydrates, but the chemistry does not leap into sulfide secondary and tertiary oxidation (h2s03, h2s04, h2s203+ etc) probably requires UV / ozone for that, thus your conundrum🎉love your videos, billy

[cynicalbuddha]

I think the opening of your gold mine videos were my favorite last year. Can't wait till the snows gone and you can get back in there. You left us on such a cliff hanger with your second blast.

[ChrisRalph]

I've had smelts do the same - I think its a hydration thing as here in dry Nevada it takes 2-3 weeks to do the same. I'm guessing that its the free sulfur that is hydrating - pyrite has more sulfur than 1 to 1 ratio (which is what would chemically go with iron). I have not done any testing, but I am guessing that it is that excess sulfur that is reacting with moisture and oxygen in the air.

[Jatslo]

In theory, you can develop a system similar to a retort for collecting sulfur and other gases produced during the roasting process. A retort is a closed vessel used for heating substances at high temperatures, with the aim of collecting volatile components produced as byproducts.

In your case, instead of mercury vapor (although there may be some), the system would capture sulfur dioxide and other gases generated during the roasting of sulfide ores. This can be achieved by designing a closed system where the sulfide ore mixture is heated in the presence of excess iron(III) oxide (3:1 ratio) to provide the necessary oxygen for oxidation reactions. The gases produced during roasting, including sulfur dioxide, can then be directed to a collection chamber or system equipped with gas collection mechanisms.

The collected gases can undergo further treatment, such as scrubbing with alkaline solutions (Sodium Hydroxide), to remove impurities and recover valuable components. Additionally, by controlling the atmosphere within the retort-like system, you can minimize environmental emissions and ensure the safe handling and disposal of byproducts.

This approach offers a sustainable method for metal extraction from sulfide ores, allowing for the recovery of valuable metals while mitigating environmental impacts associated with traditional smelting processes. However, careful design and implementation are necessary to optimize the system for efficiency, safety, and environmental compliance.

The main talking point that prompted us is the fact that an iron(III) oxide (3:1 ratio with sulfides) will oxidize the ore without the need for an atmosphere, or nitrates that should be used sparingly. I see you add iron in some of your smelts, but it is likely better to add the iron(III) oxide from the get go.

There are more ways, but we'll just leave it at that.

[mikeblair]

That went way better than I thought. I didn't expect a half gram, Plus anything possibly in the matte. I'm impressed

[ExtractingMetals]

I did some research on this and have an answer. When sulfides are exposed to the atmosphere they can become hydrated. The combination of the water and sulfides in the atmosphere will cause the water to become sulfuric acid when exposed to UV light (ie sunlight). This acid then breaks down the structure of the slag which is why it falls apart. So it is really just a cool set of chemical reactions going on here. Let me know if this makes sense.

[Goldhunter]

Good stuff per usual. I have a friend with a mine in Eastern Washington who told me years ago that his iron pyrite assayed out to 3 ounces/ton.

[DJ-bhju]

I'm relieved that you addressed that you haven't process the bags from your mine... Thought I'd missed something....

[davidoconn]

Thank you Jason. I enjoy your channel we appreciate the hard work you do for our benefit..

[menow]

Look..we got some gold. Love everytime you say it. Keep searching for AU. Thanks for bringing us along.

[wertza]

wow can you make timelapse of that 5:45 transition

[rockman]

Hey Jason, Great video! Some gold is better than no gold! Looking forward to part 2 - get rid of the rest of the matte. Thumbs up! Stay safe! Jim

[jessevennard]

Not a metallurgist but I believe sulphides are eager to oxidize so I’m guessing the sulphides have oxidized which is why they gained mass.

[chuckerickson]

Thanks Jason you always make my morning coffee richer. Time to check out your store.

[markfudger]

Yes, your problem is that the gold is bonding to the thiosulfate ions. Thiosulfate leaching of gold ore is sometimes used when the ore contains copper, which acts as a catalyst for the leaching process. You just need to break the S2 bonds first before anything else. Haven't you tried roasting the concentrate in air first?

[danlindey]

This is so interesting. I love your enthusiasm and passion in what you do. Waiting on some serious gold mining. I hope you make a million dollars but I don't want it to change you're video style.

[charliespeegleokliving]

More experiments! Place the black matte into small sealed containers. One should be full with little air space and just place a chunk into another. Maybe repeat with unsealed containers with a very small opening.

[butziporsche]

Yeah Jason, a little Sreetips action with some aqua regia?