Selective bio-flocculation of hematite mineral using Bacillus subtilis for phosphorous removal from iron ores

Bacillus subtilis is used as a bio-surface modifier to flocculate hematite mineral (Fe2O3). The effect of bacterial interaction on the behavior of the hematite and apatite minerals as the main source of phosphorous in the iron ore was investigated using zeta-potential, and FTIR measurements. The effect of pH on the flocculation of the two minerals was investigated. The zeta-potential of hematite is strongly affected by Bacillus subtilis interaction while the maximum flocculation efficiency was achieved at pH 6. The hematite mineral could be separated from its mixture with apatite mineral in the presence of Bacillus subtilis at pH 6.