Bauxite


Bauxite is a popular composed of aluminum hydroxide. [1]

Images of bauxite

Bauxite: Quick Facts and Characteristics

Some quick facts for Bauxite:
  • Transparency: Bauxite is opaque.
  • Luster: In terms of luster, bauxite is dull.
  • Streak: Bauxite streaks white.
  • Hardness: Bauxite's hardness ranges from 1 to 3 on the Moh's scale.

Bauxite: Background and Summary

Bauxite is a mineral that is commonly used for aluminum production. It is an aluminum ore and is the main source of aluminum. It is a sedimentary rock that is composed of aluminum hydroxide minerals, mainly gibbsite, boehmite, and diaspore, along with iron oxides and clay minerals.

Bauxite is typically identified by its reddish-brown color and pisolitic texture. It is often found in tropical and subtropical regions, and is formed by the weathering of aluminum-rich rocks over time. Bauxite deposits can be found in countries such as Australia, Guinea, Brazil, Jamaica, and India.

The primary use of bauxite is for the production of aluminum. Bauxite is refined into alumina, which is then used to produce aluminum metal through the process of electrolysis. It is also used in the production of refractory materials, ceramics, and as a proppant in hydraulic fracturing.

Bauxite: Table of Properties

Attribute Bauxite (src)
Transparency opaque
Chemical Formula
Chemical Composition aluminum hydroxide
Hardness 1, 3
Streak white
Hydrous No
Colors common: brown
less common: gray, pink, beige, white, yellow


Bauxite: FAQ

Q: Is bauxite a renewable resource?
A: No, bauxite is a non-renewable resource.

Q: Is bauxite toxic?
A: Bauxite itself is not toxic, but the refining process can produce hazardous waste.

Q: Can bauxite be recycled?
A: Aluminum can be recycled, but bauxite itself cannot be recycled.

Sources

- United States Geological Survey. "Bauxite and Alumina." Mineral Commodity Summaries, January 2021.
- Australian Mines Atlas. "Bauxite." Geoscience Australia, updated 2020.
- Bauxite: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bauxite

Previous Mineral: acanthite Next Mineral: meionite