Potential Application of Red Mud in Cement: An Indian Perspective

Abstract

The insoluble residue remaining after digestion of bauxite with NaOH at high T and P is commonly referred to as “red mud” or “bauxite residue” in the Bayer process of obtaining alumina from bauxite ore. Red mud is a large-scale waste, and because of its alkaline nature and fine granulometry, poses a grave threat to the ecosystem. The construction and building industry have the potential to consume red mud in large quantities and hence its use in the production of cement is being explored. Red mud contains oxides of iron, aluminium, and silica, which are important ingredients of cement, therefore the red mud finds application in the cement industry. The qualities, availability, and characteristics of red mud and cement have been explained along with their Indian and global situation. The paper provides information about key aspects of red mud's potential use in the cement industry. The anticipated technical and financial difficulties of employing red mud in cement have been thoroughly examined. Utilising red mud in the cement industry will support a circular economy and environmentally sound red mud management, enhancing the metal industry's sustainability.