A novel technique for silver extraction from Ag2S is described. The method utilizes thiosulphate as complexing reagent and the redox reaction between SO2 added as Na2SO3 powder and H2S gas evolved. The parameters of the reaction such as pH, the reaction temperature, the complex equilibrium of Ag+ ion with thiosulphate and the solubility of Ag2S were investigated. Silver ions, obtained by this means are collected in high purity (99%) by applying appropriate electrolysis conditions. The interference from other metallic impurities, namely copper, gold, iron and zinc, is eliminated by choosing an appropriate electrolysis potential.

A novel technique for silver extraction from Ag2S is described. The method utilizes thiosulphate as complexing reagent and the redox reaction between SO2 added as Na2SO3 powder and H2S gas evolved. The parameters of the reaction such as pH, the reaction temperature, the complex equilibrium of Ag+ ion with thiosulphate and the solubility of Ag2S were investigated. Silver ions, obtained by this means are collected in high purity (99%) by applying appropriate electrolysis conditions. The interference from other metallic impurities, namely copper, gold, iron and zinc, is eliminated by choosing an appropriate electrolysis potential.