REVEGETATION OF BAYER PROCESS RESIDUE DISPOSAL AREAS IN CVG-BAUXILUM
Hartmann, V., Rangel, O. and Correia, M.
In 1998 CVG-Bauxilum started, as part of the environmental remediation process, a test program with the objective to find out how it will be possible to revegetate the areas actually used for process residue and red mud disposal.
Samples of the soil, laboratory analysis, investigation of previous experiences of revegetation of contaminated soils, were the basis for preparation of the pilot test, subsequently a field test and finally an almost 2.6 Ha experimental area, were we have at the moment growing species typical of this latitude. Several gramineous species were tested in a series of pilot areas, prepared with a different combination of fertilizers, sand, top soil and other chemicals. Only few of them grew successfully.
The strongest species whose characteristic is to grow on the surface and very resistant to climatic conditions were selected for the development of the experimental area, adequately prepared according to the best pilot section findings, with a sprinkler system to control the humidity during dry-wet season.
CVG-Bauxilum is confident to have taken a big step in the right direction environmentally speaking. Dust control and remediated area were achieved and will be the basis for future remediation of closed disposal areas.