Biomining. Industrial use of Bacteria for mineral processing. State of the Art and Future Perspectives. (#1546)

Authors

Abrego-Mayo, Jefferson

Jamanca-Lino, Gustavo

Ortiz, Nilton

Abstract

Modern mining requires more sustainable and efficient processes. Physicochemical methods have been effective on high-grade ores but have limitations on low-grade ores due to their low selectivity and mineralogical characteristics. As an alternative, bioleaching has gained popularity, especially on copper and gold sulfide ores. Countries such as Australia, Chile, and the USA apply it industrially on copper, while in Europe and Asia bacterial strains are being investigated for more complex minerals such as gold-bearing refractories. This article updates the state of the art in bioleaching of copper and gold sulfides based on laboratory studies. A systematic review was carried out following the PRISMA method, selecting 27 articles that analyze variables such as pH, temperature, growth medium, kinetics, and nutrients. Recoveries of 76% and 77% for gold and copper are reported using bacteria adapted to flotation concentrates with arsenopyrite and pyrite. In addition, the industrial limitations of the process and its environmental and social benefits are discussed. Biomining is proposed to process uranium ores, rare earths, and extraterrestrial materials in ISRU technologies, opening new frontiers for the industry.