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ASK Bioprocess

2026

ASK Bioprocess

Using microbes to recover valuable metals from mining waste and e-waste.


About

ASK Bioprocess is pioneering a greener approach to metal extraction — harnessing the power of microbes to recover valuable metals from industrial waste streams, including ore, e-waste, and slag. With 30+ years of combined expertise in bioleaching, the team offers end-to-end services from feasibility studies through to pilot plant design and execution. At a time when global demand for critical metals is accelerating, ASK Bioprocess is building the technology to meet it sustainably.


Founder & Director: Priya Kaluskar

Priya holds a Master of Biotechnology from UWA with a focus in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and is currently completing a PhD at UWA Medical School researching electroconductive nerve guidance conduits and endogenous lipids for nerve repair. She also contributes to preclinical research in small and large animal trials at VitalTrace. Priya brings a rare combination of deep scientific knowledge and commercial drive — focused on translating research into practical, impactful innovations in biotechnology.


Managing Director: Dr. Vijay Kaluskar

A PhD in Environmental Microbiology with 30 years of industry experience, Dr. Kaluskar provides the deep technical foundation behind ASK Bioprocess's bioleaching technology and process expertise.


Director: Sanjeevan K.

A specialist in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Sanjeevan brings the data and systems thinking that underpins ASK Bioprocess's modern approach to industrial metal recovery.


The Problem They're Solving

By 2030, global demand for metals like copper and gold is projected to rise by nearly 300%, driven by electrification, renewable energy, and EV adoption. Conventional mining is struggling to keep pace — ore grades are declining and new mines take 15–20 years to develop. Meanwhile, the world produces around 13 billion tonnes of metal waste annually. Recovering even 1% of metals from that waste could meet 15% of global demand. ASK Bioprocess's bioleaching technology makes that recovery possible at ~97% metal recovery rates and 99% purity.


What They Do

  • Bioleaching — microbe-powered metal extraction from low-grade ores, tailings, e-waste, and slag

  • Techno-economic feasibility studies — assessing metal waste streams to tailor the right recovery solution

  • Project conceptualisation and planning — from initial scoping through to full project design

  • Engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) — end-to-end delivery of bioleaching facilities

  • Testing and commissioning — validating performance before full-scale deployment

  • Consultation — ongoing advisory on technology selection and project execution


Industry

Biotech · Mining Technology · E-Waste Recovery · Circular Economy · Critical Minerals


Links

Work With ASK Bioprocess

ASK Bioprocess works with mining operators, e-waste processors, and industrial companies looking to recover metals from waste streams. Get a bioleaching quote by submitting a sample inquiry at askbioprocess.com.



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ASK Bioprocess
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