| Abstract: | The electrochemical transfer characteristics of nickel sulphides from six West Australian localities are examined by the nonlinear complex resistivity (nlcr ) method. Ores are classified on the basis of their state of oxidation (supergene, transition zone and primary ores) in an equivalent mine water electrolyte; evidence is found for a systematic change of electrical response with oxidation that is symptomatic of electrochemical reactions varying from diffusion to charge-transfer controlled processes. The analysis is based on the assumption that the Randies’ circuit is an effective model of a rock's electrical response in its natural electrolyte. Both complex impedance plane graphs and computer inversion are used to study the model. Harmonic distortion is a useful aid in this interpretation. |
