Bioleaching Test of Polymetallic Nodule Samples from the IOM Exploration Area

The Interoceanmetal Joint Organization’s (IOM) exploration license is granted in the area located within Clarion–Clipperton Zone of Eastern Central Pacific. All activities related to minerals this are beyond limits national jurisdiction and come under provision United Nations Convention on Law Sea regulations. geological survey, which was subject exploration, focused polymetallic nodule deposits. Other covered tests processing, including alternative methods metal extraction. This article describes methodology bioleaching process provides a summary initial results test, applied samples nodules taken from H22 block IOM area. efficiency different pulp density conditions studied. enrichment heterotrophic Mn-reducing microorganisms prepared as leaching medium. Bioleaching took place with sample weights order determine maximum possible extraction yield highest concentration elements obtained leachate. During bioleaching, media were also exchanged achieve decomposition regular addition nutrients for bacteria. increased 100% (without Cu) when reduced 0.1% (w/v). discontinuous washing recovered 55% Mn, 36% Ni, 15% Co, 27% Zn, 38% Cu 10% To total Cu, Ni recovery nodules, an intermittent about 25 changes 60% medium required has potential be used environmentally friendly other commonly options processing.