The Borax Method of Gold Extraction for Small-Scale Miners

Abstract

Background. More than ten million artisanal and small-scale miners (SSM) worldwide use mercury to extract gold, releasing large amounts of the toxic element into the environment annually. Many alternatives to mercury have been suggested over the years with little avail. A group of miners in the Philippines has demonstrated that the readily available and inexpensive mineral borax, when used as a flux for smelting gold out of heavy mineral concentrates, is an effective substitute for mercury with the added benefit of significantly increasing gold recovery. The borax method is environmentally benign compared to the highly toxic mercury, easy to learn and does not require great financial outlay.

Objectives. The objectives of this paper are to present a basic comparison of the mercury amalgamation and borax methods of gold extraction for SSM, and to propose that the borax method be further analyzed and promoted throughout global SSM communities.

Conclusions: The borax method appears to capture more gold, as well as eliminate the use of mercury, a known toxin. It is also less expensive. Scientific research should continue in order to further establish the uses and limitations of the borax method.

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http://www.journalhealthpollution.org/ojs/ojs-2.2.4/index.php/journalhealthpollution/article/view/49