Microorganisms have been introduced to various areas of the mining industry with phenomenal success. Advances in biotechnology have permitted the extraction of metals from low-grade ores, improved recovery rates at operations, and reduced operating costs. Further improvements are expected with continued research in identifying bacterial strains better suited for individual applications and large-scale operations as well as in the genetic engineering of bacterial strains that can stand up to high temperature processes and heavy metals such as arsenic, mercury, or cadmium. Biomining has become one of the premier mining technologies, and the future appears bright.
The potential applications of biotechnology to mining and processing are countless. Some examples of past projects in biotechnology include a biologically assisted in situ mining program, biodegradation methods, passive bioremediation of acid rock drainage, and bioleaching of ores and concentrates. This research often results in technology implementation for greater efficiency and productivity or novel solutions to complex problems. Additional capabilities include the bioleaching of metals from sulfide materials, phosphate ore bioprocessing, and the bioconcentration of metals from solutions. One project recently under investigation is the use of biological methods for the reduction of sulfur in coal-cleaning applications. From in situ-mining to mineral processing and treatment technology, biotechnology provides innovative and cost-effective industry solutions.
Featured Projects:
- Acid Mine Drainage — 111kB PDF
- Biohydrometallurgy Research and Development at the INL — 90kB PDF
- Bioleaching of Metals from Sulfide Minerals — 83kB PDF
- Biological Reduction of Metals — 95kB PDF
- Using Microbes to Process Coal — 92kB PDF
- Cyanide Degradation in Tailings Ponds by Stimulating Indigenous Microorganisms — 13kB PDF
- Evaluation of Thermophilic Bacteria for Sulfide Mineral Heap Leaching — 13kB PDF
- Contact:
- Robert Neilson, (208) 526-8374, Send E-mail