What is the Difference Between Biomining and Bioleaching?

Biomining and bioleaching are techniques used to extract metals from their ores using microorganisms, such as prokaryotes and fungi. However, there are some differences between the two processes:

• Biomining: This is a broad term that describes the extraction of specific metals from their ores through biological means, usually microorganisms. It is an alternative to traditional physical-chemical methods of mineral processing. In biomining, microorganisms secrete organic compounds that can chelate the metals in the metal ore, and bacteria are used to oxidize sulfur and iron in the metal ore.
• Bioleaching: This is a specific type of biomining that involves the mobilization of positively charged heavy metal ions from the insoluble ores by biological dissolution processes and bio-oxidation. Bioleaching is commonly used for extracting metals like copper and gold.

In summary, biomining is the broader term that encompasses the use of microorganisms for metal extraction, while bioleaching is a specific type of biomining that focuses on the mobilization of heavy metal ions through biological dissolution processes and bio-oxidation.

Comparative Table: Biomining vs Bioleaching

Here is a table comparing the differences between biomining and bioleaching:

Please note that the terms biomining and bioleaching are often used interchangeably in the literature, and they share many similarities. The key difference between the two is that biomining specifically refers to the use of prokaryotes or fungi to extract metals, while bioleaching involves the use of various microorganisms, including bacteria and archaea.