Red Mud—Its Properties and Application in Geotechnical Engineering

Extensive research studies are carried around the globe in order to explore the engineering properties and effective utilization of Industrial waste in an adequate way. This is done for conservation of naturally available resources and prevention of waste formation which otherwise becomes inevitable. Red Mud which is often referred to as Bauxite Residue is the waste produced during aluminium extraction from the ore of bauxite. While World’s production of bauxite residue stands somewhere near to 150 million tons/annum, India itself produces 9 million tons annually. Limited studies have been carried around to understand the Engineering properties of this waste and challenges associated with its potential use in the field of Geotechnical Engineering. One of the major hurdles in the disposal and effective utilization of Red Mud is its high alkalinity with pH range 10.5–13.5. This study also helps us to find a solution for the problem of disposal of Red Mud which is also considered hazardous. Overall this review shows effective use of Red mud in the area of geotechnical engineering.