Overview
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This research aims to investigate the fundamental chemistry of the environmental management processes used in the neutralisation of bauxite refinery residues. Attempts will be made to develop economic resources from the neutralisation by-products for water purification. Research in water purification applications will focus on the purification of wastewater containing toxic anionic species.Australia’s mining industry is growing larger every year due to significant economic returns and available resources. There are currently 6 operating bauxite mines and 7 alumina refineries in Australia, all of which require sustainable environmental management plans. Globally, Australia is the largest producer of alumina, which in turn means Australia has the greatest amount of waste that needs to be appropriately treated and disposed. The highly caustic matrix of bauxite refinery residues renders the residue hazardous if left untreated. Therefore, an economical solution was devised that incorporates the use of seawater to neutralise the causticity of the residue through the formation of numerous compounds. Although this method of treatment has been used for numerous years, a full understanding of the mechanism and kinetics involved in the formation of these compounds is still largely unknown. A layered mineral compound (hydrotalcite) is a known precipitate in the neutralisation process, which has potential water purification applications.
- Study level
- PhD, Masters, Honours
- Supervisors
- QUT
- Organisational unit
Science and Engineering Faculty
- Research area
- Keywords
- wastewater, industry, waste, residue, alumina, bauxite, purification, environment
- Contact
- For more information, contact Dr. Sara Couperthwaite.
Dr Sara Couperthwaite
Professor Graeme Millar
Emeritus Professor Ray Frost
