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Updated: Jan 1, 2026

Electrochemically and Bioelectrochemically Induced Ammonium Recovery
Published on: January 22, 2015
Simultaneously enhanced Cu bioleaching from E-wastes and recovered Cu ions by direct current electric field in a
Xiaocheng Wei1, Dongfang Liu1, Wenli Huang1
1Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Technology for Complex Trans-Media Pollution, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 94, Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300350, China.
Abstract:
In this study, a proof-of-concept of bioleaching and recovery of copper (Cu) from E-wastes assisted by direct current (DC) electric field was proved in a bioelectrical reactor. Results showed that 40 mA electric current application could not only significantly shorten the leaching time of Cu from 5 (control) to 3 days with 100% leaching efficiency, but also recover about 97% leached Cu ions within 4 days. DC electric field improved the activity and growth of iron oxidizing bacteria and facilitated Fe2+ oxidation, which resulted in effective leaching of Cu from printed circuit boards (PCBs). The functional Acidithiobacillus was selectively enriched by DC electric field for enhancing the efficiency of bioleaching. At the same time, the leached Cu ions were rapidly electrodeposited on the cathode, achieving the recovery of Cu. Hence, this work provided a novel strategy for metals bioleaching and recovery from E-wastes.
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