Alumina (aluminium oxide), except artificial corundum

cpc code 41432 covers the production of alumina, a crucial material in the aluminum industry. Alumina, also known as aluminum oxide, is a versatile compound with a wide range of applications, from the manufacture of aluminum metal to the production of abrasives, ceramics, and refractories. As a key input for the 41431 Aluminium, unwrought industry, the alumina sector plays a vital role in the broader economy, supporting various downstream industries and contributing to global supply chains.

The primary production technique for alumina is the Bayer process, which involves the extraction of alumina from bauxite ore. This multi-step process includes crushing and grinding the bauxite, dissolving the alumina in a sodium hydroxide solution, and then precipitating the alumina as a white powder through controlled cooling and seeding. The resulting alumina is then calcined, or heated, to remove any remaining moisture and impurities, producing the final alumina product.

The main inputs required for the production of alumina include bauxite ore, which is the primary raw material, as well as energy sources, such as electricity and natural gas, to power the various stages of the Bayer process. Additionally, the industry relies on specialized equipment, such as crushers, grinders, and calcination furnaces, to efficiently extract and refine the alumina.

The primary output of cpc code 41432 is alumina, which is then consumed by the 41431 Aluminium, unwrought industry to produce aluminum metal. Alumina may also be used in the manufacture of other products, such as abrasives, ceramics, and refractories, which fall under different cpc codes. The alumina produced under this code is a crucial input for a wide range of downstream industries, contributing to the overall economic activity and development.