Bioreactor Process Optimization for Bioleaching of Fine-Grained Residues from Copper Smelting

• DOI: 10.4028/www.scientific.net/amr.1130.321
• Publication Date: 2015-12-08T18:11:45Z
• Authors: Cindy Klink; Juliane Heim; Birgit Daus; Sebastian Eisen; Michael Schlömann; Simone Schopf
• Keywords: Copper extraction techniques; Oxidizing agent; Laboratory flask; Zinc smelting

Theisen sludge, a fine-grained by-product from copper smelting is secondary resource for the winning of strategic elements by metal-oxidizing acidophilic bacteria. Screening cultures, that grew in presence toxic heavy metals containing fly ash was successfully performed. Small scale experiments shaking flasks with subsequent analysis pregnant leaching solution (PLS) revealed biological extraction major (zinc and copper) minor (cobalt rhenium). Results were confirmed XRF analyses residue. The bioleaching approach up-scaled stirred tank bioreactors under controlled conditions. Optimization metal-extraction rates will be achieved regulation process-parameters, predominantly redox-potential.