Core Insights - Chinese researchers have unveiled a new mechanism for gold precipitation induced by pyrite, providing a fresh perspective on gold ore formation [1][3] - The study captures the real-time process of gold nanoparticle formation on pyrite surfaces at the nanoscale, marking a significant advancement in understanding mineralization processes [1] Group 1: Research Findings - The research utilized in-situ liquid-phase transmission electron microscopy to observe the reaction between pyrite and extremely low concentrations of gold solution [1] - It was discovered that gold nanoparticles do not form in solution but rather in a "dense liquid layer" closely adhering to the pyrite surface, where the chemical environment changes due to pyrite dissolution [1] - This "reaction zone" acts like an efficient "nano-factory," leading to rapid supersaturation and solid particle precipitation [1] Group 2: Implications - The newly identified mechanism is applicable to explaining the enrichment processes of gold in various natural hydrothermal gold deposits, including orogenic, Carlin-type, and shallow low-temperature hydrothermal types [3] - From an application standpoint, this mechanism offers guidance for interface regulation in green gold leaching processes [3]
矿物表面“长”黄金 我国科学家揭秘自然“炼金术”
Xin Hua She·2026-01-23 06:31