H. B. Liu, H. B. Liu, Yan Tong, H G Liu, H G Liu, Jingna Li, Rui Liao, Yang Liu, Jun Wang
This study investigated the impact of energy substrate selection on the bioleaching mechanism of lepidolite by the dominant bioleaching bacterium Sulfobacillus thermosulfidooxidans . Through the establishment of bioleaching systems driven by distinct energy substrates (S 0 , Fe 2+ , and FeS 2 ), we demonstrate that the process is coregulated by multiple factors: acidification via H⁺ dissolution, metal ion adsorption by extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), and dual promoting and inhibitory effects arising from secondary mineral formation in FeS 2 /Fe 2+ systems. Overall, proton-driven acidification is likely the decisive factor governing leaching efficiency. Metabolomic analysis revealed significant substrate-induced metabolic variations, with critical regulation observed in the nicotinate/nicotinamide metabolism, pantothenate/CoA biosynthesis, and carbon-nitrogen metabolic pathways. These adaptations crucially regulate electron transfer, iron/sulfur oxidation, and mineral phase stability, ultimately determining differential leaching performance. This work elucidates the pivotal role of energy substrate selection in lepidolite bioleaching efficiency, providing theoretical guidance for high-efficiency strain screening, leaching process optimization, and recovery rate enhancement. • Energy substrates are key determinants of lepidolite bioleaching efficiency. • Bioleaching involves acid dissolution, EPS adsorption and secondary mineral formation. • Substrates affect metabolic shifts regulating electron transfer and Fe/S oxidation.