Natural ripening with subsequent additions of gypsum and organic matter is key to successful bauxite residue revegetation

Abstract

The processes involved in the major steps of successful revegetation of bauxite residues are examined. The first phase is the natural physical, chemical and microbial ripening of the profile. This involves allowing the profile to drain, dry, shrink and crack to depth, leaching of soluble salts, alkalinity and Na down out of the surface layers, acidification by direct carbonation and natural seeding of tolerant vegetation with an accumulation of organic matter near the surface and an attendant development of an active microbial community. Following ripening, the surface layer can be tilled and gypsum and organic matter (e.g. manures, composts, biosolids) incorporated. These amendments result in a further decrease in pH, increase in Ca and other exchangeable cations, increased leaching of Na (with a reduction in exchangeable Na and ESP), improved physical properties, particularly aggregation, and a large increase in microbial activity. Other important considerations include the choice of suitable plant species tolerant to salinity/sodicity and local environmental conditions and the addition of balanced fertilizer applications.

Keywords

bauxite residue / bauxite residue disposal area / substrate amendment / natural ripening / soil formation in bauxite residue

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