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Project title

Algeopolymers

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University of Limerick (UL)

Lead Applicant

Lisa O'Donoghue

Project Abstract

Bauxite residue is the insoluble fraction of the bauxite ore that remains after extraction of alumina; the production of 1 tonne of alumina generates between 1-1.5 tonnes of bauxite residue. Untreated bauxite residue is classified as a hazardous material due to its high alkalinity (pH 10-12) and the disposal of the residue remains one of the most challenging issue confronting the alumina industries and associated regulatory authorities due to the massive volumes generated and the harmful impacts resulting from its disposal. Ireland produces approx. 2 Mt per annum and this is landfilled. On the other hand, Geopolymers are a class of inorganic polymer formed by the reaction between an alkaline solution and an alumina-silicate source; geopolymer cement is made from aluminium and silicon instead of calcium and silicon (Portland cement). The critical feed stocks for a geopolymer include; (i) caustic soda, (ii) soluble silica, and (iii) soluble alumina. All three feed stocks must be available in large quantities and at a cost appropriate for commercial applications. However, bauxite residue contains a high proportion of caustic soda, aluminium and silicon containing minerals and are ideally suited for use a low cost feedstocks in the manufacture of geopolymer cement. D1.1 Report on State of Art use of Bauxite residue in Geopolymer applications D1.2 Report on the State of Art use of wastes or other residues used in the Geopolymer applications. D1.3 Database of state of art processes D1.4 Publication based on state of art report ( once it does not compromise IP or partners confidential information) D2.1 Industry Survey results sheets D2.2 Current state of knowledge map D2.3 Peer reviewed publication on survey results D2.4 Short 3 page report on international visits or secondments undertaken D3.1 Irish construction geopolymer workshop report D3.2 Algeopolymer Roadmap and next actions required D3.3 Publication on workshop activities This project will form the baseline of knowledge for the potential construction sector to create a Irish value chain regarding this residue. Key industry players are involved including Rusal and an advisory board consisting of Covanta from USA who research bottom and flyash use in geopolymer application, ecocem Irish cement company who currently incorporate tailings into cement and representatives from BRAVO EIP and EIT Raw Materials KIC.

Grant Approved

�98,365.57

Research Hub

Green and Circular Economy

Research Theme

Resource efficiency

Start Date

30/04/2017

Initial Projected Completion Date

29/04/2018