Bioleaching of Metals from Sulphidic Min

The extraction of metals from sulfidic minerals has critical implications for resource management and environmental sustainability. This chapter explores the conventional methods of metallurgy, highlighting their historical significance, particularly pyrometallurgy and hydrometallurgy, alongside their limitations in processing low-grade ores and multimetal concentrates. The objective is to evaluate the mining, mineral processing, and metallurgical extraction processes to understand their environmental impacts and inefficiencies. Methodologically, the discussion encompasses a review of existing practices and the environmental burdens they impose, such as solid, liquid, and gaseous wastes stemming from mining activities. Results indicate that conventional mining techniques generate substantial waste and pollution, impacting land use and ecology before, during, and after mining operations. This highlights the need for alternative extraction methods, such as bioleaching, which could provide eco-friendlier solutions while addressing the growing demand for metal resources. The findings stress the importance of developing sustainable mining practices to mitigate the adverse effects associated with traditional metallurgy and promote efficient resource utilization.