A review of mine tailing treated with microbial induced calcium carbonate precipitation

Abstract

Ore beneficiation results in the production of finely ground tailings after the extraction of minerals. In recent decades, the production of mine tailings has expanded due to the growing demand for minerals. The tailings comprise heavy metals, hazardous compounds, and chemicals introduced during the process of mineral extraction, which have the potential to contaminate the environment and pose risks to human health. The mechanical stability of tailings bulk is compromised by its small particle size and high water content. Hence, the management and containment of tailings are crucial aspects of mining and milling operations. Microbial-induced calcite precipitation (MICP) has the potential to address challenges associated with the clean-up of mining tailings. Microorganisms involved in calcium carbonate precipitation can bind, immobilize and sequester contaminants in tailings containment systems, thus preventing their dispersion and serving as an effective strategy for controlling their release. The presence of calcium carbonate minerals in tailings enhances stability and strength characteristics hence mitigating landslides and erosion while improving load-bearing capability. This review specifically examines the fundamental aspects of tailings and the process of treating mining tailings drying through microbial-induced calcium carbonate precipitation.