A Way Forward in Waste Management of Red Mud/Bauxite Residue in Building and Construction Industry

Abstract

In the Bayer’s process of extracting alumina from bauxite using caustic soda, the waste generated is called as red mud/bauxite residue. About 1–2.5 tonne of bauxite residue is generated per tonne of alumina produced depending upon the bauxite and process conditions used. It is generally stockpiled into the red mud ponds situated near the industrial area and is highly alkaline which is a matter of environmental concern. Hence it becomes necessary to look upon its waste management and utilization for various applications. This paper is an endeavour to focus upon the efforts taken by the researchers worldwide to make use of red mud in building and construction industry. It projects Indian and world bauxite and alumina scenario. Chemical composition of red mud generated in different countries has been presented. Work carried out on the sub-applications of building and construction such as bricks, ceramics, cement, geopolymers, clay materials, slag treatment, road construction, and fillers has been described. Pilot plant/commercialization in this application area till date has been mentioned. Issues which are restricting use of red mud in building and construction have been discussed. Some guidelines for the appropriate management and utilization of red mud have been stated.