Heap Bioleaching

Over time the emphasis of heap bioleaching models has moved from particle scale processes to bulk scale processes. In many cases however the representation of particle scale effects in these bulk scale models are quite simplified. This book describes an agglomerate scale model which serves as a building block for the systematic integration of detailed particle scale processes into bulk scale models for heap bioleaching. The agglomerate is defined as a unit volume of a heap that comprises a solid phase (a size distribution of ore particles), a liquid phase (stagnant and flowing leaching solution which contains dissolved solutes and attached and planktonic microbes) and a gas phase (flowing air and air pockets). The model developed here accounts for the interaction of chemical reactions, microbial processes and transport processes subject to certain assumptions, and a sensitivity study is carried out on the numerical results. The model falls within the framework of diffusion-reaction-convection equations. This book will be useful to academics and professionals interested in mathematical modelling of the heap bioleaching process.