A method of extracting zinc from a sulphidic ore is provided which
comprises bioleaching the ore in a heap with acidophilic microorganisms
to produce a pregnant leach solution which is recovered from the bottom
of the heap. An integrated process which comprises subjecting the
pregnant leach solution to neutralization and solvent extraction to
produce a concentrated zinc solution is also provided. Zinc may be
recovered from the concentrated solution by means of electrowinning,
either in the absence or presence of manganese. Alternatively zinc may be
recovered in the form of a zinc compound.