Description
This PhD project explores the coupled physical and chemical mechanisms that govern gold recovery from tailings under electrokinetic conditions. By applying controlled electric fields, the study investigates how ionic transport, electroosmosis, and geochemical reactions interact during the mobilisation and complexation of gold. A key focus is the use of environmentally benign lixiviants and green solvents, including cholinium-based deep eutectic systems, to maintain gold in soluble ionic forms while reducing the environmental footprint of leaching processes.
Benefits
Understanding the interplay between electrokinetic transport and gold–ligand reactions in tailings will advance the design of sustainable metal recovery systems. The results will guide the development of efficient, low-impact extraction technologies compatible with Australia’s goals for greener and more circular mining practices.
