Biotechnological innovations in iron ore beneficiation

Many types of microorganisms occur intimately associated with iron ore deposits contributing to biogenic formation and redox conversion of iron oxides and associated minerals. Bacteria such as Paenibacillus polymyxa and sulfate reducing bacteria are capable of altering the surface chemical behavior of iron ore minerals such as hematite, alumina, calcite and silica. Bacterial cells and bioreagents such as bioproteins can be utilized to induce iron ore flotation or flocculation. Mineral-specific bioreagents such as proteins and exopolysaccharides are generated when bacteria are grown in the presence of the above minerals.