Biomineração: extração sustentável e silenciosa de minério.

Abstract

For years, man has used minerals in the various activities performed on the planet, thus causing depletion of natural reserves of metals worldwide. In addition, the work performed in underground mines is heavy and risky, making it clear that their extinction would do well not only humanity but also the environment. In this situation, there is growing demand for alternative methods of extraction which provides the efficient exploitation of these minerals. Given the above, the biomining plays an extremely significant role, enabling an economically viable to extract minerals in nature through a process known as bioleaching and bio-hydrometallurgy way. This technique has many advantages, such as low investment costs and operation, isn't necessary skilled labor for its operation, and does not generate toxic gases, which makes it more environmentally acceptable. The goal of this paper is to present a literature review onbiomining with the approach of the main aspects of the process, namely, micro-organisms involved, biomining mechanisms and factors that influence the process and applications of biomining.