Bioleaching – Definition & Meaning

Bioleaching is a process that uses microorganisms to extract metals from ores and concentrates. The process involves the use of bacteria that can oxidize metal sulfides, which then releases the metal ions that can be recovered by conventional methods. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of bioleaching, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.

Definitions

Bioleaching is defined as the process of using microorganisms to extract metals from ores and concentrates. The microorganisms used in bioleaching are typically bacteria that can oxidize metal sulfides, which then releases the metal ions that can be recovered by conventional methods. Bioleaching is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way of extracting metals from ores and concentrates.

Origin

The use of bioleaching dates back to ancient civilizations where people used bacteria to extract copper from ores. However, the modern bioleaching process was developed in the 1940s when researchers discovered that certain bacteria could oxidize metal sulfides. Since then, bioleaching has become a widely used process in the mining industry.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, bioleaching is defined as “the extraction of metals from ores using microorganisms.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines bioleaching as “the extraction of metals from ores and concentrates using microorganisms.”

Associations

Bioleaching is associated with the mining industry as it is used to extract metals from ores and concentrates. It is also associated with environmental sustainability as it is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way of extracting metals.

Synonyms

Some synonyms of bioleaching include microbial leaching, biomineralization, and biomining.

Antonyms

There are no antonyms of bioleaching as it is a unique process that does not have an opposite.

The Same Root Words as Bioleaching

Some words that have the same root as bioleaching include biodegradable, bioreactor, and biotechnology.

Example Sentences

1. The mining company used bioleaching to extract copper from the ore.
2. Bioleaching is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way of extracting metals.
3. The bacteria used in bioleaching can oxidize metal sulfides.
4. The use of bioleaching has revolutionized the mining industry.
5. The researchers studied the effects of bioleaching on the environment.