# Development of Technology for the Boleaching of Uranium in a Solution of Bacterial Immobilization
###### Abstract
[19] explored the geological and mineralogical characteristics of ore tailings, revealing their potential in biotechnology. A molecular characterization of _Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans_, conducted by [PERSON] et al. [20], aids in selecting optimal strains for processing specific ores. [PERSON] et al. [21] studied the interaction between _Acidithiobacillus ferro oxidans_ and minerals, paying special attention to ergatorrozite synthesis. [PERSON] et al. [22] analyzed the bacterial oxidation of Fe(II) and subsequent precipitation of Fe(III), highlighting the role of microorganisms in these reactions. [PERSON] et al. [23] investigated anaerobic Fe(II) oxidation by microorganisms, delving into the ecological and mechanical aspects of this process. [PERSON] et al. [24] confirmed the possibility of bioleaching rare earth elements from phosphate ores, expanding the application horizons of this technology. The aim of this research is to determine the optimal parameters for the biooxidation of ferrous iron in the bioreactor with an immobilizer, including the bacterial biomass concentration, access to atmospheric oxygen, bacterial interaction effects with the immobilizer surface, and optimal bioreactor environment. The oxidation of ferrous iron (Fe\({}^{2+}\)) to ferric iron (Fe\({}^{3+}\)) is crucial for uranium extraction, as Fe\({}^{3+}\) actively participates in the leaching processes of uranium from ore, making it more accessible for extraction. This process allows for more efficient and environmentally friendly uranium mining, reducing dependence on chemical oxidants. The enhanced oxidative activity of the bioeagent synthesized by iron-oxidizing bacteria, used for metal leaching, is likely determined by the most energetically favorable conformation of molecules and consists of a higher partial charge on the iron atom and lower energy of the free molecular orbital of the bioreagent molecule, facilitating a greater charge transfer when interacting with quadrivalent uranium. The biological oxidation method utilizing bacteria, such as _Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans_, provides an environmentally friendly and economically viable alternative to traditional chemical processes. This approach not only increases the uranium content in the productive solution but also reduces the costs and environmental damage associated with the use of chemical oxidants, as practiced in uranium mines in Kazakhstan. Despite the proven effectiveness of bioleaching in other fields, research on its application in uranium extraction through in situ leaching is limited. Our study aims to optimize the biooxidation process in a bioreactor using specialized immobilizers to enhance the oxidation rate of Fe\({}^{2+}\) and improve uranium extraction efficiency. This includes examining the biomass concentration, oxygen availability, and bacterial interaction with immobilizers. The characteristics of in situ leaching, related to the mechanisms of the solution's passage deep underground in the ore body, necessitate further research to enhance understanding and develop technologies that would contribute to increasing the economic efficiency and environmental safety of uranium mining processes using biological oxidation.