Bioleaching Optimization of Nickel from Chromite Tailings Using A. ferrooxidans: A Taguchi Design Approach
Geomicrobiology Journal, cilt.43, sa.4, ss.417-428, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 43 Sayı: 4
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1080/01490451.2025.2587053
- Dergi Adı: Geomicrobiology Journal
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, BIOSIS, Geobase
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.417-428
- Anahtar Kelimeler: Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans, bioleaching, nickel recovery
- Çukurova Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
This study investigates the sustainable recovery of nickel from chromite beneficiation plant waste using bioleaching with Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans. The research addresses the increasing demand for nickel, a critical resource for clean energy technologies, by optimizing recovery process through Taguchi L9 orthogonal design and ANOVA analysis. The key parameters, including solid ratio (1%–5%) and leaching time (5–15 days), were evaluated to determine their effects on metal extraction efficiency. The results demonstrated maximum recoveries rates of 89.20% Ni, 77.05% Fe, and 23.66% Co under optimal conditions (5% solid ratio, 15 days). Statistical analysis revealed that solid ratio had the most significant influence on Ni recovery (52.06% contribution), followed by leaching time (35.70%). These findings contribute to advancing secondary resource utilization and minimizing the environmental impacts associated with nickel extraction. Overall, the study highlights the potential of bioleaching as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional hydrometallurgical methods, aligning with circular economy principles.