4.1 In primary metallurgical processes for gold bearing ores, gold is extracted with an alkaline cyanide solution. Metallurgical accounting, process control, and ore evaluation procedures depend on accurate, precise, and prompt measurements of the gold levels.

4.2 These test methods are comparative referee methods for compliance with compositional specifications for metal amounts or to monitor processes. It is assumed that all who use these methods will be trained users capable of performing common laboratory procedures skillfully and safely. It is expected that work will be performed in a properly equipped laboratory under appropriate quality control practices such as those described in Guide E882, and that proper waste disposal procedures will be followed.

1.1 These test methods cover the determination of gold in ore processing cyanide solutions within the following ranges:

Method

Application Range,
μg/mL

Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry

0.001 to 0.500

Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry

0.300 to 10.0

Note 1: The lower limit for the Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry Method, 0.001 µg/mL, was set following the guidance of Practice E1601. The reproducibility Index, R, was calculated using the total standard deviation for the lowest concentration Youden pair solution.

1.1.1 These test methods may also be applied to cyanide leach solutions from metallurgical evaluation procedures.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.3 The test methods appear in the following order:

Method

Sections

Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry

9 – 16

Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry

17 – 24

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautions are given in 11.1.1, 11.5 and 12.2.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.