One of the most important issues of alumina smelters, regarding
environmental quality protection, is the disposal of solid waste
arising from alumina extraction. These wastes consist of an alkaline
pulp, containing solid particles, and, therefore, their disposal
requires special care to avoid contamination of both surface water
and groundwater.
In order to ensure protection of soil and of groundwater sources,
bauxite waste lakes/ areas are internally lined with a double waterproof
layer (clay and PVC). Bottom drainage systems permit the collection
of soda water, pumping it to be recycled in the process. In the surface
drain system, the neutralized water is returned to the environment.
Once full,
the waste lakes are fully recovered by modern techniques and reintegrate
the natural landscape with continuous monitoring of groundwater,
even after the recovery process.
Successful experiences in refineries show
that the aluminum industry has achieved good results in environmental
protection, with effective actions regarding the recovery and revegetation
of occupied and waste disposal areas.
Related areas
The Industry
Production processes
Mining processes
Smelting processes |
