Environmental Protection Measures in Russian Gold Mines Using Sodium Cyanide for Gold Extraction

In the gold mining industry, the use of sodium cyanide for gold extraction is a common practice. However, this process also brings potential environmental risks. Russian gold mines have been taking a series of effective environmental protection measures to mitigate these risks.

Stringent Management of Sodium Cyanide

Sodium cyanide is stored in specially designed and secure facilities, equipped with protective barriers and temperature - humidity control systems. During transportation, it follows strict protocols to prevent any leakage or spillage. Precise dosage control is also crucial. Through experiments, the optimal concentration of Sodium Cyanide is determined, usually within the range of 0.05% - 0.1%, to avoid excessive use, which not only increases costs but also the risk of environmental pollution.

When it comes to sourcing high - quality Sodium cyanide, Shaanxi United Chemical stands out. The company not only offers top - notch sodium cyanide but also provides comprehensive technical support for the treatment of sodium cyanide waste liquid. Their expertise can be a great asset for mines aiming to operate efficiently. By choosing Shaanxi United Chemical, mines can benefit from reliable raw materials and professional technical solutions, which contribute to the smooth operation of the entire gold extraction process.

Wastewater Treatment

Oxidation Treatment

Chemical oxidation or biological oxidation methods are utilized to convert cyanides in wastewater into less toxic or non - toxic substances. For example, by adding strong oxidants, Cyanides can be decomposed into harmless substances such as carbon dioxide and nitrogen.

Neutralization Treatment

The pH value of the wastewater is adjusted to neutral or near - neutral to prevent acidic or alkaline wastewater from polluting the environment. This also helps to precipitate and remove some heavy metal ions.

Recycling

A solution recycling system is established to continuously recycle the cyanide solution. This improves resource utilization and reduces the total amount of wastewater discharged.

Tailings Management

Specialized Storage Facilities

Tailings are stored in specially designed tailings ponds, dams, or storage areas with excellent anti - leakage properties. This prevents the leachate containing cyanides from seeping into the soil and groundwater.

Application of Modern Tailings Treatment Technologies

Technologies such as tailings concentration and filtration are employed to reduce the moisture and cyanide content in tailings, minimizing the risks associated with tailings storage and making them easier to manage and dispose of.

Site Protection

Application of Anti - Leakage Liners

Anti - leakage liners, such as polyurea coatings, are laid on the ground and inner surfaces of facilities in areas where sodium cyanide is stored, in leaching tanks, and in tailings ponds. This prevents cyanides from leaking into the soil and groundwater.

Installation of Secondary Protection Systems

In addition to the main anti - leakage liners, secondary protection systems are set up, such as setting up cofferdams and collection tanks around storage areas. This allows for the timely collection and treatment of leaked cyanides in case of an accident.

Environmental Monitoring

Regular Detection

Regular monitoring of wastewater, soil, air, and surrounding water bodies is carried out to detect the content of cyanides and other pollutants. This ensures that all indicators meet environmental protection standards and enables the timely discovery and handling of potential pollution problems.

Real - Time Online Monitoring

Online monitoring equipment is installed in key areas to monitor key parameters such as cyanide concentration and pH value in real - time. Once abnormal situations occur, alarms can be issued promptly, and measures can be taken immediately.

Management and Evaluation

Environmental Impact Assessment

Before the implementation of gold mining projects, comprehensive environmental impact assessments are carried out. The potential environmental risks brought about by the use of sodium cyanide are analyzed, and corresponding preventive and mitigation measures are formulated.

Compliance with Regulations and Supervision

Russian gold mines strictly abide by domestic and international regulations and standards regarding the use of cyanides and environmental protection. They accept supervision and inspections from relevant government departments to ensure the implementation of all environmental protection measures.

In conclusion, Russian gold mines have made remarkable efforts in environmental protection during the process of using sodium cyanide for gold extraction. These measures not only protect the environment but also ensure the sustainable development of the gold mining industry. Moreover, with partners like Shaanxi United Chemical, the gold mining operations can be more efficient and environmentally friendly.