Modification of oxidizing activity of Thiobacillus ferroxidans by some particulate solids

Different particulate solids such as glass powder, various types of activated carbon and bentonite suspended in Thiobacillus ferrooxidans cultures produce very different effects on the oxidizing activity of the microorganism. The atmospheric oxygen uptake by Thiobacillus ferrooxidans in Warburg respirometer flasks containing 9K medium with ferrous sulfate as energy source and suspended bentonite is 2.8 times that in the absence of solids. The dissolution rate of pure pyrite in 250 cm³ shake flasks containing 9K medium and bentonite is considerably enhanced over that where the only solid phase is pyrite. Conversely, the oxidizing ability of the microorganism seems to be inhibited by all the activated carbons tested. The effect of ground glass seems to be related to its particle size distribution. Implications for the bioleaching of sulfide ores and coal pyrite are discussed in the light of current knowledge on the adsorption of Thiobacillus ferrooxidans cells on solid surfaces.