The process involves extracting sand from bauxite residue and then using it as a replacement for quarry sand.

CSRP says consumers can be sure the product, which it calls ReSand, derived from the recovered materials is safe to use.

It says the recovery of construction sand from mineral residues may in the future replace the need for quarry sand, reduce clearing of natural bushlands for sand quarries and reduce the demand for waste residue containment facilities.

The first trial conducted by CSRP involved the extraction of some 2500 cubic metres of sand from bauxite residue which was then used as road base to widen an access road to the new highway near Pinjarra.

A second trial involved a demonstration nutrient trap, installed on the side of the highway, designed to collect water run-off and remove nutrients, such as phosphate and nitrates, helping to prevent algal blooms from developing in surrounding waterways.

CSRP is also researching ways to produce products like concrete, construction materials and soil treatments from mining residue.

The $705 million New Perth-Bunbury Highway was opened to traffic last weekend.

News Courtesy "Construction Industry News"