Heap Bioleaching

Heap bioleaching is an eco-friendly process used to extract metals, like copper or gold, from low-grade ore deposits. The ore is piled into large heaps, then soaked with a special solution containing bacteria that naturally consume the minerals. These bacteria produce acids that break down the metal-containing minerals, releasing the metals into the solution. The metal-rich liquid is then collected and processed further to recover the desired metals. This method reduces the need for extensive crushing and chemical use, making metal extraction more sustainable and cost-effective, especially for ores that are not economical to process with traditional methods.