The bioleaching of sulphide minerals with emphasis on copper sulphides — A review

Abstract

This review outlines current research in heap bioleaching, particularly in respect of the bioleaching of chalcopyrite, assesses the status of the bioprocessing of copper sulphides and evaluates promising developments. The bioleaching of sulphide minerals is reviewed with emphasis on the contribution from the microbial community, especially attachment and biofilm formation, bioleaching mechanisms and the potential benefits to be gained by a greater understanding of the molecular genetics of the relevant microbial strains. The leaching and bioleaching of copper sulphides is examined. The main focus is on heap bioleaching of whole ores, and the development of models to describe heap and dump processes that can be applied in the design phase as well as to optimise metal extraction. The characteristics of chalcopyrite leaching are discussed in respect of those conditions and controls that might be needed to make a heap bioleach commercially productive.