Microbes are the driving force in many processes, acting as catalysts to facilitate
biogeochemical reactions that influence mining operations and remediation efforts.
Despite this influence, microbes have often been overlooked in mining-associated
processes. Historically, this has largely been due to the inability to effectively test and
interpret mining-associated microbiological samples and data in a way that is useful to
inform decisions. However, technology has advanced dramatically over the past 5
years, and genetic (genomic) and growth-based microbial community profile (MCP)
testing is now being applied to diverse mining processes and reclamation activities to
inform and de-risk decision making.
water treatment, consultation on acid rock drainage, and process optimization. The
current state of technology is presented here as mini case studies from the past 5 years
with example applications of MCP testing in mine settings. Examples range from
permitting, design and optimization of reclamation activities, and treatment and
prevention of fouling in operational processes.