Concurrent Fe & Al2O3 recovery from Bauxite Residue

Utilization of bauxite residue (BR) is essential for controlling the annual million metric tons that are the result of the alumina and aluminium production process. This is investigating the potential of a sustainable thermal treatment of BR for iron (Fe) and alumina (Al2O3) recovery. The addition of fluxes like Sodium Borate (Na2B4O7) or Calcium Borate (Ca3(BO3)2) and carbonaceous material will be studied in detail to evaluate their effect on Fe recovery (reduction of iron oxides, generating iron and slag). Additionally, the potential of producing high value added iron (powder or bulk) will be evaluated. The feed and products will be characterized using the appropriate physical and chemical techniques such as: XRD; XRF; SEM; ICP-OES.