TECHNOLOGY
Building on its recent work around redefining gold processing economics, AZTEC Mining entered Indaba with a focused message: “Meaningful value remains in as-arising tailings, and recovering it is both technically achievable and economically compelling”. Industry response confirmed that this perspective is gaining traction. From innovation to implementation: AZTEC Mining builds momentum at Mining Indaba
“T he industry is no longer can be implemented”. Aligning with industry priorities A consistent theme across engagements was the shift toward improving gold recovery performance within existing operations, mainly due to a lucrative gold price. Rather than pursuing large- scale expansions, many operators are prioritising technologies that enhance recovery, improve efficiency, and reduce environmental impact within current plant footprints. The AZTEC Upflow Reactor (AZ-UFR) aligns directly with this approach. Installed questioning whether additional recovery is possible. The focus has shifted to how quickly it as a scavenging circuit, the AZ-UFR enables additional gold recovery from as-arising tailings without disrupting upstream processing. Its ability to integrate into existing flowsheets with minimal impact proved to be a key driver of interest during the event. From engagement to execution While Indaba remains a key forum for technical engagement, success is ultimately measured by progress beyond initial discussions. For AZTEC Mining, one engagement progressed to commercial conversion, demonstrating confidence in the AZ-UFR as a practical recovery solution. In parallel, several discussions advanced into detailed metallurgical test work planning, indicating a strong level of intent from operators evaluating implementation. Many of these engagements were built on existing relationships, with face-to-face interaction enabling deeper technical alignment and accelerating the transition from concept to evaluation. “The shift from interest to test work is a critical step toward implementation and long-term adoption.”
AZTEC’s Upflow Reactors.
Recovery and environmental performance The strong response to the AZ-UFR reflects a broader shift in mindset. Gold remaining in as-arising tailings is increasingly viewed as a recoverable resource rather than an unavoidable loss. At the same time, the technology’s ability to significantly reduce residual cyanide in final tailings supports improved environmental performance. This dual benefit of enhanced recovery and reduced environmental impact is proving to be a key driver of adoption. Building momentum With deals progressing and a strengthened pipeline, AZTEC Mining left Indaba with clear commercial momentum. The company continues to position itself as a provider of practical, high-impact recovery solutions that enhance existing operations without requiring major plant modifications. As the industry seeks more efficient ways to improve performance, tailings gold recovery solutions are expected to play an increasingly important role. “What was once considered the end of the process is now becoming one of its most valuable stages.”
Braam Smit, Ruan Kukard and Barry Beylefeld at AZTEC’s Investing in African Mining Indaba stand in February 2026.
Looking ahead The shift toward maximising recovery from as-arising tailings is no longer theoretical. It is actively being evaluated and implemented across the industry. AZTEC Mining’s focus now turns to execution, working with partners to advance test work and deploy AZ-UFR systems. This momentum will continue at West African Mining & Power Expo (WAMPEX) in June, where further engagement with African operators is expected. As adoption grows, technologies such as the AZ-UFR are contributing to a broader evolution in how recovery, value, and performance are defined in modern gold processing. n
May 2026 | www.modernminingmagazine.co.za MODERN MINING 19
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