Characterization and alkaline decomposition/cyanidation of beudantite–jarosite materials from Rio Tinto gossan ores

Abstract

Jarosite-type minerals are the major silver carriers in the gossan ores from Rio Tinto (Spain). Two types of minerals were found: one corresponding to beudantite variable enriched in sulfate; the other is potassium jarosite containing various amounts of arsenate and lead. They are isostructural with cell parameters intermediate between those reported for end members. Silver is present in both jarosites as dilute solid solution (230 ppm Ag in average). The cyanidation of potassium jarosite in saturated Ca(OH) 2 at 70–100°C consists of two step in series: a slow step of alkaline decomposition followed by a fast step of Ag complexation from the decomposition solids. The alkaline decomposition is characterized by the simultaneous removal of sulfate and K ions and the formation of an amorphous hydroxy-arsenate of Fe, Pb and Ca. The kinetics are chemically controlled, with an activation energy of 86.5 kJ mol −1. The nature of the alkaline decomposition of beudantite was similar but extremely slow at ≤100°C.