Bioleaching Extraction of Valuable Metal From E-Wastes: A Mini Review

Abstract

Electrical waste (E-waste) is a significant global issue, with an annual generation of over 50 million tons, causing detrimental effects on both the environment and human health. However, E-waste is also known as a secondary valuable metal resource. Although hydrometallurgy and pyrometallurgy are still the preferred methods for metal recovery from E-wastes, bioleaching has gained significant attention as a promising alternative for metal recovery from E-wastes due to its sustainability, environmental friendliness, and cost efficiency. In this review, different chemical principles of bioleaching were first discussed. Major bacterial groups that can be applied in bioleaching were then introduced. The bioleaching procedures and applications have been summarized and analyzed. Finally, a few perspectives were made on potential future research on bioleaching.