ABSTRACT
The past few years has seen a rapidly growing interest in the potential for using microorganisms for processing of fossil fuels and minerals. Some of this interest stems from the excitement generated by the "new biotechnology" involving genetic engineering in medicine, agriculture, and biochemistry. Nonetheless, there are proven examples of commercial microbial processing of minerals. Some of the same organisms that are important for metal ore processing are potentially applicable to coal bioprocessing. T. ferrooxidans, because of its ability to oxidize and solubilize pyrite (FeS2), has been studied extensively in the laboratory for removal of pyritic sulfur from coal. Much of the current interest in coal bioprocessing concerns removal of sulfur, given the recent emphasis on prevention of acid rain through a reduction of sulfur emissions from coal-fired power plants. Certain microorganisms oxidize pyrite and marcasite and have been considered as potential agents for a coal desulfurization process.
