CIP vs CIL Process Selection
Carbon-in-Pulp (CIP) and Carbon-in-Leach (CIL) are dominant gold recovery processes. In CIL, leaching and adsorption occur simultaneously — preferred for ores with both free-milling and refractory gold.
Circuit Design
Tank Configuration
CIP/CIL circuits use 6-10 adsorption stages. Tank volume is calculated based on slurry flow rate, solids percentage and required residence time per stage (30-60 minutes).
Carbon Management
Activated carbon loaded at 15-25 g/L is advanced counter-current to slurry flow. Carbon advancement rate controls loaded carbon grade (3,000-8,000 g/t Au).
Elution & Electrowinning
Loaded carbon is stripped using Zadra or AARL elution circuits. Gold is recovered by electrowinning on stainless steel cathodes, then smelted to doré bars.