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How are bauxites formed?
Bauxite is formed by the thorough weathering of many different rocks. Clay minerals commonly represent intermediate stages, but some bauxites appear to be reworked chemical precipitates rather than simple alteration products. Bauxite may grade into laterite or clay, laterally or vertically.
Who produces bauxite?
Guinea has some the largest bauxite reserves in the world. Australia, Guinea and China are some of the most dominant countries in bauxite mine production, generating 110 million, 82 million, and 60 million metric tons of bauxite, respectively, in 2020.
What is mined at Weipa?
Owned by Rio Tinto, the Weipa bauxite mine is located on the Western Cape York Peninsula in Queensland, Australia. The mine, which officially commenced production in 1969, is operated by Rio Tinto Aluminum (subsidiary) and produces roughly 16.3 million tons of bauxite annually.
Where is bauxite mined?
Bauxite is typically found in topsoil located in various tropical and subtropical regions. The ore is acquired through environmentally responsible strip-mining operations. Bauxite reserves are most plentiful in Africa, Oceania and South America. Reserves are projected to last for centuries.
Where is most aluminum produced?
China
World primary estimated aluminum production totaled just over 64.4 million tonnes in 2019. China was the world’s largest producer with 36 million tonnes, followed by India, Russia, and Canada….International context.
| Ranking | 1 |
|---|---|
| Country | China |
| Thousand tonnes | 36,000 |
| Percentage of total | 55.9% |
Does the US produce bauxite?
The United States has small amounts of bauxite ore located in Arkansas, Alabama and Georgia. However, very little mining is done in the United States today.
Which Caricom countries produce bauxite?
Guyana’s most important mineral resources are the extensive bauxite deposits between the Demerara and Berbice rivers that contribute to making the country one of the world’s largest producers of bauxite.