UTILIZATION OF ALUMINIUM BEARING RAW MATERIALS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF ALUMINIUM METAL, OTHER METALS AND COMPOUNDS

Important results from the project

The objectives set for the project were successfully achieved and even extrapolated. A proof-of-concept for the valorization of red mud as an oxygen carrier in the biomass gasification process was achieved and published as a peer-reviewed article. In addition, we also demonstrated the use of red mud in bio-based porous materials. It has also resulted in a strengthened collaboration with other EU partners involved and has also led to new collaborations.

Expected long term effects

The project results lay the foundation for the utilization of waste from the aluminum industry. The results can enable the design of scaled-up processes for bioenergy conversion while facilitating the recovery of valuable metals from red mud. It also lays foundation for the use of red mud as an additive for bio-based porous materials that can be used in products such as thermal insulation and shock absorbing materials.

Approach and implementation

The plan of the project was to demonstrate the concept of using red mud in bioenergy conversion processes, thereby providing a pathway for the recovery of valuable metals. The activities went as planned. We tested the concept on real red mud from industrial partners. We went beyond the plan to develop a new research direction to use red mud as an additive for biobased porous materials. The collaboration worked as intended.