Bauxite

Bauxite a reddish brown to buff colored rock is the primary source of aluminum a critical metal with diverse applications. It's a sedimentary rock composed mainly of hydrous aluminum oxides with the mineral gibbsite being the most important constituent. Bauxite is processed through a multi stage refining process to extract aluminum oxide alumina which is then further smelted to produce pure aluminum. Forms of Bauxite Trade Bauxite is primarily traded in two forms Dried bauxite This is the most common form transported in bulk ships or containers. Calcined bauxite Bauxite treated at high temperatures to remove moisture and improve its suitability for alumina refining.