By using naturally occurring bacteria to turn mine waste into critical minerals, Laurentian University researchers are advancing cleaner extraction methods that could strengthen Ontario’s domestic supply chains, support the province’s electric vehicle, clean energy and defence sectors and reduce reliance on energy-intensive processes.
At MIRARCO Mining Innovation, Laurentian University’s Sudbury-based research arm, researchers are experimenting with bioleaching, a technique that uses specialized microbes to break down mine tailings and extract valuable metals like nickel, cobalt and copper into a liquid solution. The system, which simulates full-scale mining operations, has achieved up to 98 to 99 per cent nickel recovery in the tested materials. The leftover material can also be repurposed for construction or used as underground mine backfill, helping to reduce waste and promote a more circular mining industry.
Researchers are also exploring how recovered metals can be transformed into commercially valuable products, including converting iron into ferrofluid for applications such as water purification. By moving this technology toward full-scale operation, the research could help Ontario unlock new value from existing mine waste, attract industrial investment and strengthen our position in the critical minerals economy.
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