Adhesion of Ferroplasma acidiphilum onto

This study investigates the adhesion of Escherichia coli onto mineral surfaces such as Quartz, Hematite, and Corundum utilizing the extended Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek (DLVO) theory. The objective is to understand the physicochemical interactions influencing microbial adhesion to these minerals, which is critical for applications in mineral separation and biofilm formation. A comprehensive methodology is employed, including calculations of adhesion energies that factor in Lifshitz-van der Waals interactions, electrostatic forces, and hydrophobic/hydrophilic contributions. Results indicate that the adhesion strength varies significantly with the surface properties of the minerals involved, particularly after treatment with specific bacterial strains. For instance, the presence of Escherichia coli modifies the surface charge and energy characteristics of quartz significantly, facilitating its role as a flotation collector under acidic conditions. Additionally, the study reveals that the bacterial adhesion alters not only the surface properties of the minerals but also their subsequent interactions, leading to noteworthy consequences in the realm of biomineralogy. These findings enhance the understanding of how microbial processes can be strategically utilized in mineral separation technologies.