Benjamin Jones (PhD Student)
University of Queensland

Project Title
Use of organic matter amendments and clays to improve rehabilitation of bauxite refinery residue sand.

Biography
Ben graduated with a B. Marine Studies (Hons1) from the University of Queensland in 2007. His previous experience was in the fields of Aquaculture and Marine Biotechnology. During his honours year Ben tested the efficacy of two novel immunostimulant adjuvants designed for use with immersion vaccines. Ben remains interested in the outcomes of this project but have since embarked on a career in environmental science by pursuing a PhD with the CRC CARE.

Start Date
June 2008

Project Details
Ben's study will determine whether rehabilitation outcomes at Alcoa World Alumina bauxite processing residue sites can be improved through the addition of soil organic matter and clays to the residue sand. The residue sand limits plant growth due to its alkalinity, salinity/sodicity, low nutrient-supplying capacity, a permeable nature, low water holding capacity and a high leaching potential. It is proposed that the addition of organic matter and clay to the residue sand will improve its properties as a growth medium.