Bio-Oxidation and Biocyanidation of Refractory Mineral Ores for Gold Extraction: A Review

Bioleaching has emerged as a green technology with promising applications in mining industries in the context of recovery of precious metals from mineral ores. The authors synthesize the current knowledge available in the bioleaching of gold (Au) from ores by bringing together historical developments and recent endeavors. In addition, the role of the microbial community in the bio-oxidation of refractory ores for removal of base metal impurities and in the recovery of Au based on biocyanidation is reviewed. They also address the future research directions in the bioleaching of Au in order to make further advances toward practical industrial applications.