In primary metallurgical processes for gold bearing ores, gold is extracted with an alkaline cyanide solution. Metallurgical accounting, process control, and ore evaluation procedures depend on accurate, precise, and prompt measurements of the gold concentrations.

This test method is a referee method for compliance with compositional specifications for metal content. 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. Follow appropriate quality control practices such as those described in Guide E 882.