Scientific and Research Geotechnological Center of the Far Eastern Branch of RAS (Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Russia)

Averyanova V. E., Junior Researcher, Purlac@inbox.ru

The practical application of bioleaching for sulfide ores is often limited by the lengthy process duration and low recovery rates of target metals, making it less attractive compared to conventional extraction methods. Enhancing the rate and efficiency of bioleaching is essential to improve its economic viability, particularly for lowgrade ores containing small amounts of valuable components such as non-ferrous metal sulfides and pyrite. Optimizing bioleaching is a multifaceted challenge that requires a tailored approach, considering the specific mineralogical characteristics of the ore (e.g., composition, porosity), the chemical properties of the metals to be extracted (e.g., oxidation state, tendency to form complexes), and process parameters (e.g., temperature, pH, oxygen concentration). This study investigates the potential of non-metallic catalytic additives to enhance the bioleaching of metals from low-grade ores. Various additives—including chlorides, iodine, sulfur-containing organic compounds, and surfactants—were evaluated for their ability to accelerate dissolution and improve process efficiency. Some additives promote the oxidation of sulfide minerals, while others enhance ore permeability or facilitate microbial access to target metals. Notably, the synergistic effects of combining different additives may offer the most significant improvements in bioleaching performance. The effectiveness of these additives is highly dependent on the ore type, the microorganisms employed, and the cultivation conditions. Therefore, identifying optimal combinations of additives and process parameters remains a critical area for further research.

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