The processing of high silica bauxites ScienceDirect
The Bayer process is the principal method for the production of alumina from bauxite worldwide. The modern version of the process (developed in the 1880's) still maintains the key steps of dissolution of aluminarich minerals into hot caustic solution, separation of the insoluble phases, followed by gibbsite precipitation and calcination of the gibbsite to alumina (Al 2 O 3).