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Chemical Alkaline Leaching and Alkaliphile-Driven Bioleaching: Advancing Metal Recovery from Ores
Shuang Zhou1,2, Xianglong Qi1, Weijian Yu1
1School of Resources, Environment and Safety Engineering, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan 411201, China.
Microorganisms
|November 27, 2025
Summary
This review explores alkaline leaching for metal ores, detailing chemical and microbial methods. It aims to strengthen the theoretical basis for greener, more efficient mineral resource utilization.
Area of Science:
- Mineral Processing and Extractive Metallurgy
- Biotechnology and Bioremediation
Background:
- Acid leaching is mature but limited by alkaline gangue minerals.
- Alkaline leaching offers advantages for specific ore types but lacks a strong theoretical foundation.
- Efficient mineral resource utilization requires advancements in leaching technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review chemical and microbial leaching techniques for metal ores under alkaline conditions.
- To elucidate the mechanisms and influencing factors of alkaline leaching systems.
- To provide a theoretical foundation and practical guidance for developing greener and more efficient ore leaching technologies.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of chemical and microbial alkaline leaching.
- Analysis of mechanisms and influencing factors (alkaline matrices, oxidants, pressure, microbial strains).
- Discussion of future development prospects.
Main Results:
- Detailed examination of various alkaline leaching techniques and their underlying mechanisms.
- Identification of key factors influencing leaching efficiency in different alkaline environments.
- Synthesis of current knowledge to address the weak theoretical framework of alkaline leaching.
Conclusions:
- Alkaline leaching holds significant potential for processing complex ores, especially those with alkaline gangue.
- Further research into mechanisms and influencing factors is crucial for optimizing alkaline leaching.
- Advancing alkaline leaching technologies is key to achieving sustainable and efficient mineral resource utilization.
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