Chemical Alkaline Leaching and Alkaliphile-Driven Bioleaching: Advancing Metal Recovery from Ores.

Ore leaching constitutes a core step for achieving efficient utilization of mineral resources, primarily encompassing acid leaching and alkaline leaching methods. Currently, acid leaching technology has reached a high level of maturity and is widely applied in industry due to its advantages of fast reaction kinetics and broad applicability to various mineral types. However, the theoretical framework underpinning alkaline leaching systems remains relatively weak. Given the distinct advantages of alkaline leaching in processing ores containing alkaline gangue minerals, this review systematically examines chemical and microbial leaching techniques for metal ores under alkaline conditions. It focuses on elucidating the mechanisms and key influencing factors associated with different alkaline matrices, oxidants, external pressures, and microbial strains. Future development prospects are also discussed. The aim is to provide a theoretical foundation and practical guidance for advancing metal ore leaching technologies towards greener and more efficient directions.