In the primary metallurgical processes used by the mineral processing industry for copper bearing ores, copper and silver associated with sulfide mineralization are concentrated by the process of flotation for recovery of the metals.

This test method is intended to be a referee method for the determination of silver in copper concentrates. It is assumed that all who use this procedure will be trained analysts capable of performing common laboratory procedures skillfully and safely. It is expected that work will be performed in a properly equipped laboratory and that proper waste disposal procedures will be followed. Appropriate quality control practices must be followed such as those described in Guide E 882.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of silver in the range of 50 g/g to 1000 g/g by acid dissolution of the silver and measurement by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Copper concentrates are internationally traded within the following concentration ranges:

This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to its use.