Abstract:Carlin-type gold ore is a typical carbonaceous and arsenic-containing gold deposit. Carbonaceous matter in gold ore is mainly composed of inorganic carbon and organic carbon. Except for carbonate minerals, inorganic carbon is mostly elemental carbon, while organic carbon mainly contains humic substance and hydrocarbon. The previous research results indicate that carbonaceous matters generate serious preg-robbing effect on gold extraction by cyanidation, resulting in drop of gold leaching rate. Composition characteristic of carbonaceous matter in Carlin-type gold deposits and mechanism of pre-robbing are described. Decarbonization methods of carbonaceous matter in gold ore are summarized. Principles, characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of existing pretreatment methods are analyzed. Prospect for future research of Carlin-type gold deposit is put forward.