Abstract

Provided herein are processes and methods for the bio-extraction of trace metals from a metal-oxide containing starting material (e.g., a metallic ore). The processes and methods may utilize metal-oxide reducing bacteria to electrochemically reduce metal oxides in the ores, thereby freeing valuable trace metals. In preferred embodiments, the processes and methods may utilize metal-oxide reducing bacteria from the group Shewanellaceae and/or the group Geobacteraceae.

IPC Classes  ?

• C22B 3/18 - Extraction of metal compounds from ores or concentrates by wet processes with the aid of microorganisms or enzymes, e.g. bacteria or algae
• C12P 3/00 - Preparation of elements or inorganic compounds except carbon dioxide
• C21B 13/00 - Making spongy iron or liquid steel, by direct processes
• C22B 1/24 - BindingBriquetting
• C22B 47/00 - Obtaining manganese

Abstract

A buoyancy system for an underwater autonomous vehicle is provided. The buoyancy system includes one or more pressure vessels, a primary pump connected to each of the one or more pressure vessels with the primary pump configured to pump liquid from the one or more pressure vessels. The buoyancy system further includes a controller communicatively coupled to the primary pump and configured to operate the main pump via wireless or wired communication, and a power source configured to provide power to the controller and the primary pump.

IPC Classes  ?

• B63B 21/50 - Anchoring arrangements for special vessels, e.g. for floating drilling platforms or dredgers
• B63B 22/20 - Ballast means
• B63G 8/24 - Automatic depth adjustmentSafety equipment for increasing buoyancy, e.g. detachable ballast, floating bodies

Abstract

A buoyancy system for an underwater autonomous vehicle is provided. The buoyancy system includes one or more pressure vessels, a primary pump connected to each of the one or more pressure vessels with the primary pump configured to pump liquid from the one or more pressure vessels. The buoyancy system further includes a controller communicatively coupled to the primary pump and configured to operate the main pump via wireless or wired communication, and a power source configured to provide power to the controller and the primary pump.

IPC Classes  ?

• B63G 8/24 - Automatic depth adjustmentSafety equipment for increasing buoyancy, e.g. detachable ballast, floating bodies
• B63B 21/50 - Anchoring arrangements for special vessels, e.g. for floating drilling platforms or dredgers
• B63B 22/20 - Ballast means

Abstract

ShewanellaceaeGeobacteraceaeGeobacteraceae.

IPC Classes  ?

• C12P 3/00 - Preparation of elements or inorganic compounds except carbon dioxide
• C12N 1/20 - BacteriaCulture media therefor