Sodium Cyanide Supplier South Africa

What Is Sodium Cyanide?

Sodium cyanide (NaCN) is an inorganic salt of hydrocyanic acid and the essential chemical reagent for gold and silver recovery by cyanide leaching (the cyanidation process). In alkaline leach circuits, NaCN forms soluble gold cyanide complexes [Au(CN)₂⁻] that are recovered by carbon-in-pulp (CIP), carbon-in-leach (CIL), or zinc precipitation (Merrill-Crowe) processes. Sodium cyanide is also widely used in flotation as a pyrite depressant, selectively suppressing pyrite and iron sulphide flotation by forming stable iron cyanide surface complexes that block collector adsorption, while leaving target copper, gold, and PGM sulphides available for collection.

Leaching and Depression Applications

In gold leaching, NaCN is added at concentrations of 0.01–0.05% (100–500 ppm NaCN) at pH 10.5–11 in agitated tank leach circuits. Dissolved oxygen (air or pure O₂ in high-intensity processes) is required for gold dissolution. In flotation, NaCN is added to the mill or flotation feed as a depressant at dosages of 50–500 g/t to suppress pyrite, sphalerite (zinc), and iron sulphide minerals selectively, improving copper and gold concentrate grade. Its use requires careful management of cyanide concentration, pH, and circuit conditions to balance depression effectiveness against target mineral recovery.

Supply and Regulatory Compliance

Sodium cyanide is a highly toxic and regulated substance. Terracore Chemicals supplies NaCN in compliance with all applicable South African regulations covering its transport, storage, handling, and end-use. Supply is restricted to verified mining operations with appropriate safety infrastructure. Full safety documentation (SDS, handling procedures, emergency response) is provided with all orders. Import and export compliance with the International Cyanide Management Code (ICMC) applies to eligible operations.