EN
The kinetics of pyrite oxidation by Thiobacillus ferrooxidans bacteria were studied in different conditions of reaction (different size of pyrite sample relative to the leaching medium, medium pH and temperature). A model of the kinetics of the process has been proposed according to which it can be described by an autocatalytic reaction of order II, i.e. I order with respect to pyrite iron and I order with respect to the forming Fe(III) ions. On the basis of this model the rate constants and induction times of the reactions taking place in different conditions have been determined. The results obtained within the model enable us to show the optimum conditions of microbiological oxidation of pyrite.