An Assessment of Technology for Possible Utilization of Bayer Process Muds.

摘要

The program comprised review of technical literature published from 1940on subjects related to technology of processing bauxite,the dewatering and impoundment of the mud residues and their possible utilization. Mud samples were received from the domestic alumina plants for characterization experiments and dewatering studies at Battelle and at the laboratories of the Dow Chemical Company in Midland,Michigan. It was concluded from the study that there is no possibility for utilization of the muds that could significantly affect the need for impoundment within the near term. However,improved mud dewatering and methods of impoundment appear possible to develop and a program of joint industry-government demonstration and pilot projects is recommended. Investigations of the possible beneficiation of the muds into a raw material supplement in iron making and the possible use of mud as an absorbent in pollution abatement processes are also recommended.