In mining operations, tailings wastewater containing cyanide and thiocyanate is among the most strictly regulated subjects by environmental authorities. Cyanide is widely used in processes for dissolving precious metals such as gold and silver; however, cyanide and thiocyanate compounds remaining in wastewater pose serious risks to both human health and ecosystems.
Ozone technology enables far more efficient oxidation of these compounds compared to chemical solutions. Cyanide (CN⁻) is rapidly converted by ozone to cyanate (CNO⁻), then to carbon dioxide and nitrogen. This reaction proceeds much faster at low pH and requires less chemical consumption compared to conventional oxidants such as chlorine. Ozone-based solutions are also preferred for heavy metal and organic compound removal from process wastewater, delivering high treatment efficiency with low energy consumption.