Numerical Simulation Study of the Impermeability of 
Pb2+ in Bauxite Leachates

Qin Li

doi:10.70711/frim.v2i8.5160

Numerical Simulation Study of the Impermeability of Pb2+ in Bauxite Leachates

Qin Li

Abstract

Red mud, a highly alkaline fine particulate waste byproduct from alumina production, presents significant challenges for conventional geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs) due to its leachates high ionic strength, which inhibits the swelling of montmorillonite and
compromises liner integrity. To enhance barrier performance, Bentonite-polymer composite geosynthetic clay liners (BPC GCLs) have
been developed by incorporating polymers into sodium bentonite. A numerical simulation was conducted to model the migration of Pb2+,
the primary contaminant, within the liners, accounting for geomembrane defects and polymer distribution. The findings demonstrate that
polymer modification significantly reduces pollutant concentrations, enhancing the impermeability of BPC GCLs. Notably, an increased
polymer content correlates with reduced Pb2+ permeability, suggesting that the seepage resistance of BPC GCLs is augmented by higher
polymer concentrations, thus prolonging their service life.

Keywords

Bauxite leachates; Numerical simulation; Service life; Impermeability

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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.70711/frim.v2i8.5160

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