Abstract: A method to enhance the extraction of an element from an ore includes subjecting the ore, or element bearing material to electromagnetic radiation to induce pyrolysis of the material. The residue of the pyrolysis may then be processed in a conventional manner to extract the element. The radiation used in the invention has a wavelength longer than microwave radiation, and is preferably 100 mm or longer. Preferably, radio waves are used as the radiation to effect pyrolysis.