Evaluation of Aspergillus niger and Penicillium simplicissimum for their ability to leach Zn–Ni–Cu from waste mobile phone printed circuit boards

In this research, Zn, Ni, and Cu recovery from mobile phone printed circuit boards was investigated. The initial pH pulp density using Aspergillus niger or Penicillium simplicissimum fungi were optimized to improve the of a central composite design. Fungi able recover 97% Cu. Often for Ni recovery, A. more effective, but in low densities pH, P. preferred. For is appropriate at lower than 6, outperforms higher 6. Under optimum conditions (pulp 4 gL−1 10), respective Cu, Zn determined as 94%, 100%, 100% well 95%, 87% simplicissimum. At alkaline conditions, oxalic acid, citric gluconic acid are main acids produced by niger; acid. Similarly, FTIR chemical characteristics metabolites (the organic produced) analyzed under optimal HPLC. acidic produces which lead recovery.