ELECTROLYTIC RECOVERY OF PRECIOUS METALS FROM DILUTED SOLUTIONS

Electrolytic recovery of gold and silver from diluted solutions has at first been applied nearly 100 years ago. Compared with other recovery techniques electrolytic treatment offers several advantages. But to achieve high space-time yields special constructions of electrolytic cells for improved mass transfer are necessary. Ex-tended cathode surface areas and vigorous agitation are important features. Gold and silver recovery by use of newly developed electrolytic cell constructions - rotating tubular bed reactor and impact rod reactor - has been described. Calculations based on industrial application during several years are confirming that electrolytic recovery of precious metalss from diluted solutions has been operated in a very economic way.