Novel BIOelectrochemical systems for integrated Energy harvesting and bioremediation of acid MINe Drainage (BIOeMIND)

BIOeMIND aims to develop and demonstrate a sustainable treatment process for acid mine drainage (AMD).

In this concept, we will combine a bioelectrochemical cell, including biological electricity-driven autotrophic sulfate-reduction for the production of sulfide, with an electrochemical cell that includes abiotic oxidation of sulfide to elemental sulfur and electricity generation.

The system will be combined with a process that enables reduced metal toxicity and biorecovery of targeted metals such as Zn, Cu, As and Cd in the form of nanoparticles, for example sulphides, with the potential to add increased revenue.

BIOeMIND will demonstrate the applicability of the proposed framework on a use case considering an energy-autonomous robotic system, especially designed for AMD treatment at abandoned and remote mine sites, where connection to the power grid is limited, if not impossible.

If successful, the BIOeMIND technology will be able to facilitate a transition from the conventional mining industry to self-sustainable autonomous systems for smart and sustainable mining.

Considering the impact of mining on the ecosystem and the society, BIOeMIND has the potential to provide synergies between UN´s global sustainable goals (SDG) 6, 7, 8, 9, 12 and 15.