Bauxite is primarily used as the raw material for the production of alumina, which is then used to manufacture aluminum metal. It is also used in various other industries, including refractories, abrasives, cement, and chemical processes.
Key Uses of Bauxite:
- Aluminum Production:Bauxite is the main source of aluminum, with the majority of bauxite being processed into alumina, which is then used to produce aluminum metal.
- Refractory Materials:Bauxite is used in the production of refractory bricks and other materials used in high-temperature applications, such as steelmaking furnaces.
- Abrasives:Calcined bauxite, which has been treated with high heat, can be used as an abrasive agent in polishing powders, suspensions, and sandpapers.
- Cement:Bauxite is used in the production of high-alumina cement, which has rapid setting time and resistance to corrosion.
- Chemical Industry:Bauxite and alumina are used in the manufacture of various chemical products, including those containing aluminum.
- Water Treatment:Bauxite can be used in water and effluent treatment to produce aluminum sulfate, a flocculating agent.
- Steel Industry:Bauxite is used as a slag corrector in the steel industry.
- Other Industries:Bauxite is also used in the production of paper, in dental cement, and as a catalyst and adsorbent in various chemical processes.
Additional Notes:
- The world's largest producer of bauxite is Australia, followed by China, according to Testbook.
- Bauxite is found in lateritic soil, which is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions.