Neutralization of Red Mud with Organic Acids and Assessment of Their Usefulness in Abating pH Rebound
Publication: Journal of Hazardous, Toxic, and Radioactive Waste
Volume 24, Issue 1
Abstract
This study provides a practical and efficient alternative to neutralize the exorbitant pH of red mud () followed by long-term sustenance of the neutralization. The usefulness of organic acids (oxalic acid and citric acid) as standalone additives and admixed with lime in mitigating red mud alkalinity was investigated. The efficiency of these acids in terms of posttreatment pH rebound for curing period up to 180 days was monitored. The neutralization treatment produced pH reduction with simultaneous accentuation of coagulation and precipitation of hydrates, which was determined from scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis. The uniqueness of the study lies in proposing the rebound rate of pH (RRP) and rebound termination period (). The observed results offer distinctive insight into the factors affecting red mud chemistry including the role of lime as an additive. It is recommended to use 2.0 M oxalic acid or 2.5 M citric acid for neutralizing red mud. For improved microstructure, it is warranted to resort to a combination of 5% lime and 2.0 M oxalic acid.
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Data Availability Statement
All data, models, and code generated or used during the study appear in the submitted article.
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Journal of Hazardous, Toxic, and Radioactive Waste
Volume 24 • Issue 1 • January 2020
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©2019 American Society of Civil Engineers.
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Received: Jan 31, 2019
Accepted: Jun 18, 2019
Published online: Aug 24, 2019
Published in print: Jan 1, 2020
Discussion open until: Jan 24, 2020
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