Abstract

The invention relates to a process for the disposal of bauxite processing wastes comprising the steps of:(a) filtering the bauxite muds in suspension coming from the washing decanter,(b) continuously washing the dehydrated filtration cake on the filter with hot water with recycling of the liquid phase containing the greater part of the soda into the basic chemical process of the bauxite treating plant.(c) treating the mud cake separated from the filter with sea water to refluidizing the muds and to neutralize the soda residues still present; and(d) conveying the inert and neutralized mud suspension, mixed with sand residual from bauxite processing in filling basins; the invention relates also to a containment basin for the exhausted bauxites obtained with the process constituted of several basin units, singularly comprising a trapezoidal cross-sectioned containment structure or embankment, elevated above sea level, with inner core of permeable sand, lined with "tout-venant" broken rocky material, contained on the outside by large dimension boulders, on the upper part of which is placed the distribution piping of the muds, with introduction of these latter in the basin unit in several different points and provided with a drainage layer on the base.