Kinetic modeling of the bioleaching process of iron removal from kaolin

A kinetic model was developed to assess the influence of batch cultivation of Aspergillus niger on the bioleaching of iron from kaolin. A simple model was proposed using the logistic equation for growth, and the Luedeking–Piret equations for iron removal, acid formation and sucrose consumption. The performance of the model was compared against that obtained by the empirically experimental data. The model provides a reasonable description for each parameter during the growth phase. The experimental results also suggest that the product formation depends upon both the instantaneous biomass concentration, and growth rate.

► Kinetic models were developed for the bioleaching of iron from kaolin.
► A logistic model was proposed for Aspergillus niger growth in the process.
► Acid formation and sucrose consumption were modeled by Luedeking–Piret equations.
► The proposed kinetic models were compared with the experimental data in literature.