Biomineralization and Biobeneficiation of Bauxite

Natarajan, KA (2016) Biomineralization and Biobeneficiation of Bauxite. In: TRANSACTIONS OF THE INDIAN INSTITUTE OF METALS, 69 (1). pp. 15-21.

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Abstract

Role of indigenous microbes in the formation and conversion of bauxite minerals is illustrated. Many types of microorganisms such as fungi, heterotrophic and autotrophic bacteria and yeasts inhabit bauxite ore deposits bringing about biogenesis and biomineraliztion. Organisms capable of iron oxidation and reduction and solubilising calcium carbonate and silica can be isolated from bauxite deposits and are used to bring about selective mineral beneficiation to remove iron, calcium and silica. Use of Paenibacillus polymyxa in the efficient removal of calcium from low grade bauxites is demonstrated through bioreactor technology. Similarly, for iron removal from bauxite, iron-reducing bacteria can be used. Silicate bacteria aid in selective silica solubilisation to control alumina: silica ratios. Microorganisms can also be used to bring about environmental control with respect to red mud disposal through bioremediation technology.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Publication:	TRANSACTIONS OF THE INDIAN INSTITUTE OF METALS
Publisher:	SPRINGER INDIA
Additional Information:	Copy right for this article belongs to theSPRINGER INDIA, 7TH FLOOR, VIJAYA BUILDING, 17, BARAKHAMBA ROAD, NEW DELHI, 110 001, INDIA
Keywords:	Biobeneficiation; Biomineralization; Bauxite; Calcium; Iron oxides; Silica
Department/Centre:	Division of Mechanical Sciences > Materials Engineering (formerly Metallurgy)
Date Deposited:	17 Feb 2016 05:31
Last Modified:	17 Feb 2016 05:31
URI:	http://eprints.iisc.ac.in/id/eprint/53243

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