Referee analysis of precious metal sweeps and related materials
1Ledoux & Company, Teaneck, NJ 07666, U.S.A.
Abstract:
Sweeps samples are often complex mixtures containing from trace amounts to 20% of one or more precious metals distributed in matrices consisting of widely varying mixtures of base metals or their oxides. Three collection procedures are described that are suitable for the isolation of precious metals from base substances. One is based on direct fusion of the sample (high-grade sweeps) with sodium peroxide, and the others on collection of the precious metals by fire-assay techniques using either nickel sulphide or silver. The precious metals are then determined either gravimetrically or by atomic-absorption or plasma-emission spectrometry.
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