Bioleaching of covellite - A model system for Kupferschiefer

Copper is an important base metal with manifold applications. Rising global demand makes low grade copper deposits increasingly attractive. Kupferschiefer represents Europe´s largest copper deposit. However, economic copper extraction from this calciferous, carbon rich ore with finely dispersed copper minerals is difficult. We aim for a deeper understanding of processes of copper (bio-)leaching at neutral pH. We employ synthetic covellite, microbial strains from Johanngeorgenstadt (Germany), model ligands, and geochemical modelling for elucidation of relevant parameters. We differentiate mineral dissolution, complexation, adsorption, and advection.