The Hidden Problem: Where Does the Gold Go?
One of the biggest frustrations for gold refiners—both beginners and experienced—is collecting the ultra-fine gold powder after the first precipitation with Sodium Metabisulfite (SMB).
This precipitated gold often forms nano-particles so small that they pass straight through ordinary filter paper (like coffee filters or cheap lab paper). As a result, you lose a significant amount of gold and end up with a contaminated filtrate.
Adding to the challenge, the reaction produces nitrogen gas bubbles. These tiny bubbles cling to the powder and make some of your gold float instead of settling, preventing a clean collection.
One of the biggest frustrations for gold refiners—both beginners and experienced—is collecting the ultra-fine gold powder after the first precipitation with Sodium Metabisulfite (SMB).
This precipitated gold often forms nano-particles so small that they pass straight through ordinary filter paper (like coffee filters or cheap lab paper). As a result, you lose a significant amount of gold and end up with a contaminated filtrate.
Adding to the challenge, the reaction produces nitrogen gas bubbles. These tiny bubbles cling to the powder and make some of your gold float instead of settling, preventing a clean collection.
