Advances in Bioremediation of Extremely Alkaline Bauxite Residue: A Review

Bioremediation of alkaline materials using alkaliphilic and other varieties of microorganisms is one of its own kinds of ecofriendly, sustainable, cost- and energy-efficient, clean and green technology. Until recently, the extremely alkaline bauxite residue (pH > 11) was treated using various physio-chemical techniques to render it suitable for utilization. However, the present study discusses possible bioremediation techniques to reduce the exorbitant pH and sustain it for a practical duration. It is observed here that there are microbial species, which can proliferate in such extreme chemico-minerological conditions. This study reviews various bioremediation technologies which have been successfully employed by previous studies on soils and wastes. Microbial species identification and their working mechanisms that have the potential to treat alkaline wastes and soils are discussed. This review is an attempt at introducing new avenues and prospects for research into the field of amendment and utilization of bauxite residue. To increase the utilization of bauxite residue, microbial enzyme might constitute a novel technique for waste management.