Environmental hazards of chemical processes involved in the extraction of gold from mineral ores

The paper takes into consideration the chemical processes involved in the extraction of gold from mineral ores, with emphasis on cyanide leaching. The chemistry of the process, detoxification of cyanide and environmental effects are commented upon. Alternative procedures are also mentioned. Some industrial accidents leading to environment pollution are also presented, which support the need of banning the use of cyanide and to replace it with environmentally friendly technologies.