2026 Bhatti Uranium Bioleaching and Sequestration Review

This review examines the heterotrophic bacterial leaching of uranium from rocks and ores and the cellular sequestration mechanisms involved. The primary objective is to elucidate how heterotrophic microbial bioleaching solubilizes uranium via acidolysis and complexolysis. The methodology involves analyzing the production of organic acids, extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), and other compounds such as lipopolysaccharides and siderophores by various bacteria to facilitate uranium solubility. The review discusses that citric and oxalic acids are typically the dominant organic acids utilized in the leaching process, while spent growth media often contain a mixture of <C6 carboxylic acids. Results indicate that many heterotrophic bacteria, including actinomycetes, Bacillus spp., and Pseudomonas spp., have been evaluated for their ability to bioleach and sequester uranium from mineral resources. Despite significant findings, the review highlights that commercial applications for this technology remain undeveloped. This analysis underscores the potential for leveraging microbial strategies for environmentally friendly uranium recovery and the necessity for future research in overcoming the barriers to commercialization.