Bioleaching: Concepts and Application in Microbial Metal Mobilization
摘要
Bioleaching, a sustainable biotechnological process, harnesses the metabolic capabilities of microorganisms to extract metals from ores, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional mining practices. However, despite its potential, there remains a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the principles and applications of bioleaching in the context of microbial metal mobilization. This chapter seeks to address this knowledge gap by exploring the fundamental concepts of bioleaching and delving into its diverse applications in mobilizing metals through microbial agents. By examining the biochemical mechanisms at play during bioleaching and discussing optimization strategies for enhancing leaching efficiency, this chapter aims to provide valuable insights for researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers. Furthermore, it highlights emerging trends and challenges in the field, offering a glimpse into the potential future directions of bioleaching in metal extraction processes. Emphasizing the intrinsic link between biotechnology and sustainable mining practices, this chapter underscores the critical role of bioleaching in promoting resource recovery and mitigating environmental impact within the mining sector. Through its elucidation of the synergistic relationship between microbes and metal mobilization, this chapter contributes to advancing knowledge and practices in bioleaching for sustainable metal extraction and environmental stewardship.