P507D - Chemistry and Transport of Trace Elements in Bayer Liquors
Value
AUD $600,000
Commencement Date
July 2011
Duration
3 years
Program Manager
Gray Bailey
Research Providers
Murdoch University - Professor Glenn Hefter - Professor Peter M May; Parker CRC for Hydrometallurgy Solutions
Sponsors
Alcoa of Australia Limited; BHP Billiton/ Worsley Alumina Pty Ltd; Hydro Aluminium Metal Products; Rio Tinto Alcan Limited
PROJECT SUMMARY
This project provided a more detailed knowledge about the chemical properties of a selected range of trace elements (Hg, Be, Cr, U, V and Th) in the alumina industry. The nature of their chemical species in solution and how the species vary with changes in composition and temperature were investigated, together with their deportment in Bayer refineries.
HIGHLIGHTS/DELIVERABLES/ADDITIONS
The data acquired was used in the development of comprehensive chemical speciation and other computer models to understand the fate of these elements in alumina refineries and their effects on plant processes.