Evolutional Development of Alkaline Aluminosilicates Processing Technology

Abstract

Alkaline aluminosilicates are of significant interest for metallurgical and chemical industries. They are widespread in countries like Russia, USA, China, Canada, Venezuela, Mexico, Iran, etc. and can present a viable alternative to bauxites. Complex and waste-free alkaline aluminoslilcates processing technology into alumina, soda ash and cement was developed in VAMI institute in 20th century from idea till successful realization at several industrial facilities in Russia, operating till now with competitive production cost of alumina. Russian Alumina refineries are using feedstock with unique high alumina content (Al₂O₃ 26–28%) whereas there are other nepheline sources in Russia and in other counties of lower quality (Al₂O₃19–22%) and their processing results in more cement produced per tonne of alumina. An economical beneficiation technology has been developed that opens the possibility for more efficient industrial processing of comparatively poor aluminosilicate raw materials in Russia and the rest of the world.