Scientists have identified seven types of microorganisms that can extract metals such as iron, copper, manganese, gold and others from various wastes. For example, recycling one million mobile phones can yield 16 tonnes of copper, 350 kilograms of silver, 34 kilograms of gold and almost 15 kilograms of palladium.
According to Svetlana Chachina, associate professor in the Department of Biotechnology, Foodservice Technology and Commodity Science, metal reserves may be depleted this century at current rates of use. The microbiological approach is gaining vital importance as classical extraction methods have become economically unprofitable and harm the environment.
This development will not only help preserve mineral reserves, but will also significantly reduce the burden on the environment. The methods proposed by Omsk scientists are non-toxic and safe for health, which makes them an alternative to traditional methods using aggressive chemicals. The press service also noted that the use of new technologies will increase the level of metal extraction in mines to 90% and reduce energy costs by 75%.
Source: Ferra
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