Flux Markets | Bio-Leaching Skip to main content

Bio-Leaching

Extracting metals by dissolving ores using bacteria.

Bio-leaching is a process that uses naturally occurring microorganisms, such as bacteria and archaea, to extract metals from ores, concentrates, or waste materials. These microorganisms break down mineral compounds through biological and chemical reactions, allowing valuable metals such as copper, nickel, cobalt, zinc, and gold to be recovered in solution for further processing.

The process is commonly used in mining and metallurgical industries as an alternative to conventional extraction methods that rely on high temperatures, pressure, or intensive chemical treatment. Bio-leaching is particularly effective for low-grade ores and mining waste that may not be economically viable using traditional techniques. The microorganisms involved typically obtain energy by oxidising sulphide minerals, which releases the target metals from the surrounding rock.

Bio-leaching is often considered a more environmentally sustainable extraction method because it can reduce energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and minimise the use of harsh chemicals compared with conventional smelting and refining processes. However, the process is generally slower than traditional extraction methods and requires careful control of operating conditions such as temperature, acidity, oxygen levels, and microbial activity.

In recent years, bio-leaching has gained increasing attention as part of the transition to critical minerals and battery metals supply chains, particularly for the recovery of metals used in renewable energy technologies, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems.