Bauxite Residue - Curtin University

RESAND ®from coarse bauxite residueDarling Range bauxite contains significantquantities of quartz resulting in a higherproportion of coarse bauxite residue beingprocessed. This coarse residue is almost identicalto crushed rock and has a sand particle sizedistribution. Once neutralised and washed free ofsalt, this product has excellent properties for usein the construction industry. Projects at CurtinUniversity of Technology have identified ReSand ®as suitable for general fill, for use in embankmentsand also in the construction of roads. ReSand ®has also been classed as suitable as a substitutefor fine aggregate in concrete production. 5000tonnes of ReSand ® are being produced at a pilotfacility to enable demonstration projects withparticular emphasis upon road construction.RESOIL from fine bauxiteresidueWestern Australian soils aredeficient in fines and mineralswith phosphate retentioncapacity. In the Peel Harveyregion, the use of highlysoluble phosphate fertilisersand other practices has ledto excessive nutrient run-offinto the estuary with resultingalgal blooms. Widespreadagricultural application of finebauxite residue Alkaloam® (asan example of ReSoil), having ahigh phosphate retention index,will assist with phosphate levelreduction and other issues.Potted plant, field and catchmenttrials have been conducted andmonitored by the Departmentof Food and Agriculture WA.RELIME from bauxite residueBauxite residues typicallycontain solid alkalinity. Thissolid alkalinity is typicallya combination of calciumoxide, calcium carbonateand tri calcium aluminate.This material can beseparated from the processretaining a high neutralisationvalue and appears to haveproperties suitable asReLime for constructionand agricultural applications.Potted plant and field trialsconducted through theDepartment of Food andAgriculture WA are assessingthe suitability of ReLimeas an agricultural lime.INDUSTRY PARTNERSFor further information,please visit www.csrp.com.auor contactProgram LeaderDr Evan Jamieson+61 8 6436 8926evan.jamieson@csrp.com.auCSRPCommunications OfficerMs Lisa Laurie+61 8 6436 8832lisa.laurie@csrp.com.auPrinted on 100% recycled paper.