Evaluation of Environmental Factors Involved in Metallurgical Processes to Utilize Domestic Resources for Production of Alumina. Phase 1Report:Assessment of Six Raw Material/Process Technology Options.

摘要

The study provides information on the environmental factors of six raw material/process technology options for alumina production from domestic nonbauxitic resources. The six options are compared in regard to potential environmental effects. The segments of each option assessed include:mining and transportation of raw material;construction of the process plant;operation of the process plant;disposal of process wastes;and closure and reclamation of mine,process plant,and waste disposal areas. The options studied were clay/nitric acid,clay/hydrochloric acid (evaporative and gas-induced crystallization),clay/sulfurous acid, anorthosite/lime-sinter,and alunite/reduction roasting. The primary information base for the study was process feasibility studies,reports of investigations,and information circulars provided by the Bureau of Mines. Comparison of the six options indicated that the two clay/hydrochloric acid options would have the least potential for adverse environmental effects. This study is the first of a three-part program under this contract.