Bacterial leaching of complex sulphides from mine tailings altered by acid drainage

An experimental study aimed at re-flotation of laid down tailings from Kipushi (DRC) to bring sulphide concentrate suitable for further processing by hydrometallurgical means has been realized. The results from a bioleaching route chosen to accomplish the later task by use of moderate thermophilic and mesophilic microorganisms are reported. It has been found that due to the complexity of the treated material, the leaching pattern of the two principal metals of interest, copper and zinc vary. Whilst the copper bearing minerals have been leached relatively fast by direct mechanism, the leaching kinetics for the zinc minerals has been moderate involving predominantly an indirect mechanism. The effects of pH and temperature variations and ferrous ions addition upon the extent of copper and zinc dissolution have been examined. The presence of ferrous ions has been found beneficial for the leaching of sphalerite, however the concomitant formation of jarosite precipitates has led to copper leaching hindrance. Similarly, the rapid zinc solubilisation has been counterbalanced by decrease in rate of copper dissolution.