phytoextraction

Question 1

what the phytomining

Answer 1

crop planted in soil containing a low grade ore or mine waste

plants absorb metal ions (like copper) from soil

these ions are stored in the plant tissues

harvested, dried plant biomass is burned in a controlled environment

the ash contains higher concentrations of target metals than original soils

extracted (eg displacement oder electrolysis), source of valuable metals

Question 2

advantages of phyto

Answer 2

cheaper than traditional mining

produces less waste

involves smaller energy transfers

closer to being a carbon neutral activity that can contribute to sustainable development

burning plants releases co2 but they absorb co2 as they grow anyway

Question 3

negatives of phyto

Answer 3

slow
crops may need replanting and harvesting for several years before the available metal removed