Inhibition of Growth and Activity of Iron Oxidizing Bacteria for the Prevention of Acid Mine Drainage Production

Abstract

Acid mine drainage (AMD) is one of the most severe environmental problem that results from the oxidation of pyrite (FeS₂) and various other metal sulfides. In this study, the influence of microorganism was tested on the process where AMD was released and the method to inhibit AMD generated by microorganisms at abandoned mine area. The activity and growth rate of Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans and Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans, common microorganisms affecting AMD occurrence, were measured. Chlorine dioxide (ClO₂), NaCl, or surfactant (ASOR-770) was used as an inhibitor for working on activity and growth of microorganism. Among the three inhibitors, 10ppm of chlorine dioxide was the most effective inhibitor for AMD control due to the reduced the activity and growth of microorganisms by 20%.