Biological fixation of metals in mine drainage and ore wastes

Acidic and metal-polluted drainage water from abandoned pyrite mines affect aquatic life in several resipient watercourses in Norway. A possible role of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) in treatment of acidic mine water is discussed on the basis of literature studies and own experiments. SRB can generate alkalinity, remove sulfate and precipitate mental cations effectively when given appropriate growth conditions. Pure cultures og SRB were isolated from serveral mining sites and characterized physiologically and immunologically. pH-tolerance and copper sensetivity are comparable to type strains of SRB. Process studies will be conducted in the near future.Nordic Indutry Fun