Neutrophilic, microaerobic Fe(II)-oxidizing bacteria (FeOB) from marine and freshwater environments are known to generate twisted ribbon-like organo-mineral stalks. These structures, which are extracellularly precipitated, are susceptible to chemical changes in the environment once synthesized. Here, we characterize the minerals associated with freshwater FeOB stalks to evaluate microbe-mineral mechanisms involved in biomineral formation and ageing processes. Based on observations made by micro-Raman Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy and Scanning/Transmission Electron Microscopy combined with Dual-range Electron Energy-Loss Spectroscopy we propose a model that describes the crystal-growth mechanism, the Fe-valence state, and the mineralogical evolution of the stalks, as well as the biogenic contribution to these characteristics and processes. Our study suggests that the main crystal-growth mechanism includes nanoparticle aggregation and dissolution/re-precipitation reactions, which are dominant near the organic exopolymeric material produced by the microorganism and in the peripheral region of the stalk, respectively.

Mineralogical characterization of Fe(II)-oxidizing bacterial stalks

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.