How are metals obtained from the products of phytomining or bioleaching?

The process of obtaining metals from the products of phytomining or bioleaching involves using electrolysis or displacement with scrap iron. Phytomining utilizes plants to absorb metal ions from the soil and concentrate them in their biomass. Once harvested, the plant material is often incinerated, resulting in ash that contains the metal compounds.

Electrolysis is then used to separate and purify the metals from this ash. In this process, an electric current is passed through a solution containing metal ions, leading to the deposition of pure metal at the cathode. Alternatively, a less energy-intensive option involves displacement reactions where scrap iron is used to displace the desired metal from its compound, effectively resulting in metal recovery.

This method is advantageous because it allows for the extraction of metals from low-grade ores that would not be economically viable to process using traditional mining techniques.