Iron Pyrite Oxidation by Thiobacillus Ferrooxidans: Sulfur Intermediates, Soluble End Products, and Changes in Biomass†

Abstract

Parameters of growth of Thiobacillus fenooxidans were examined with the use of iron pyrite as the substrate. The concentrations of end products deviated from the stoichiometric lFe/2S ratio, reflecting the precipitation of Fe(lII). Minor amounts of trithionate accumulated transiently during growth, tetrathionate was not detected, and thiosulfate was present at trace concentrations. Bacterial growth was monitored by measurement of cell protein; 17-34% of the bacterial cells were associated with the solids. A molar growth yield of 1.92 (g dry weight bacteria per mol FeS₂) was determined from batch culture data and growth was estimated to couple with pyrite oxidation at 10-12% efficiency.

Notes

†Presented at the First International Conference on Processing and Utilization of High Sulfur Coals, Columbus, OH, October 13-17, 1985.

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Notes on contributors

ALI H. BASARAN

Present address: Department of Toxicology, Battelle Columbus Laboratories, Columbus, OH 43201, U.S.A.