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Title: Biochemical solubilization of toxic salts from residual geothermal brines and waste waters

Patent ·
OSTI ID:869616

A method of solubilizing metal salts such as metal sulfides in a geothermal sludge using mutant Thiobacilli selected for their ability to metabolize metal salts at high temperature is disclosed, The method includes the introduction of mutated Thiobacillus ferrooxidans and Thiobacillus thiooxidans to a geothermal sludge or brine. The microorganisms catalyze the solubilization of metal salts, For instance, in the case of metal sulfides, the microorganisms catalyze the solubilization to form soluble metal sulfates.

Research Organization:
Associated Universities, Inc., Upton, NY (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
AC02-76CH00016
Assignee:
Associated Universities, Inc. (Washington, DC)
Patent Number(s):
US 5366891
Application Number:
08/115,760
OSTI ID:
869616
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English