Collector-Controlled Gold Recovery in Fire Assay: Matrix-Dependent Flux Behavior and Operational Pb Button Mass Range in Geochemically Distinct Balikesir-Sindirgi Ores
JOM, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1007/s11837-026-08665-z
- Dergi Adı: JOM
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, ABI/INFORM, Applied Science & Technology Source, Compendex, EMBASE, INSPEC, Engineering Source (EBSCO), Materials Science & Engineering Collection (ProQuest), Technology Collection (ProQuest)
- Bilecik Şeyh Edebali Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Accurate gold determination by fire assay remains matrix-dependent because analytical performance is affected by coupled slag-metal-collector equilibria. This study evaluates Pb collector formation as a practical indicator of matrix-dependent Au determination. Three geochemically distinct ores (C1, C2, and C4) from the Balikesir/Sindirgi region were systematically evaluated. XRF and ICP-OES analyses confirmed matrix contrasts, including SiO2 contents of ~ 15–36 wt.%, Fe2O3 up to ~ 49 wt.%, locally elevated As2O3, and high LOI values. Flux composition and observed post-fusion qualitative observations were associated with variations in Pb collector formation and Au determination. Favorable Au responses were generally associated with Pb button masses of around 15–25 g, with some acceptable responses extending to approximately 28 g depending on the ore matrix and flux conditions. A combined flux composition (PbO:Na2CO3:Na2B4O7:flour:SiO2 = 52.89:33.05:13.22:2:2 g) was selected based on the operationally favorable component levels identified from the controlled-variable flux subsets. The method was verified with three certified references, yielding acceptable recoveries of 92.4–99.0%, and Student’s t-test confirmed agreement with certified values at the 95% confidence level. The results support a matrix-aware routine fire assay framework in which Pb button mass is used as a diagnostic parameter, rather than a stand-alone predictor, alongside flux composition and slag behavior.