FERROSILT (RED MUD): GEOTECHNICAL PROPERTIES AND SOIL MECHANICAL CONSIDERATIONS.

Abstract

The disposal of ferrosilt tailings creates problems because of the rather unusual geotechnical properties. Ferrosilt samples from three different bauxites were tested in connection with the alumina plant. The results of laboratory tests explain various ferrosilt slides experienced during the past. Should ferrosilt be utilized for application where better physical qualities of the material are required, it is possible to separate the coarser fraction from the finer fractions by using cyclons. The soil mechanical properties of the coarser fraction - called ferrosilt-sand - is of much better quality than the ferrosilt proper.