Optimization of Chalcopyrite Bioleaching using Two Different Adaptation Methods: Top-Down and Bottom-Up

Optimization of the effective parameters in the copper bioleaching of chalcopyrite concentrates (CuFeS۲) is studied by moderately thermoacidophilic microorganisms. The microorganisms with extensive metabolic properties are used in two different ways: 'top-down' and 'bottom-up'. The bioleaching experiments are performed based on the parameters of silver, activated charcoal, concentrate type (Sarcheshmeh and Miduk), and a type of bacteria. By regrinding the concentrate particles down to ۱۰ µm, bottom-up consortium, ۵۰۰ ppm silver, and ۳ g/L of coal, more than ۹۷% of the copper from the Miduk chalcopyrite concentrate is recovered within ۱۲ days. The final recovery of the control test without the microbes is ۳۵%. The performance of the bottom-up method is significantly better than the top-down one. The moderate thermophiles have an important role in copper biomining.

Keywords:

Moderate thermoacidophiles , top-down , bottom-up , chalcopyrite concentrates