[go: up one dir, main page]

WO2020072541A1 - Systèmes et procédés de production électrolytique d'aluminium - Google Patents

Systèmes et procédés de production électrolytique d'aluminium

Info

Publication number
WO2020072541A1
WO2020072541A1 PCT/US2019/054138 US2019054138W WO2020072541A1 WO 2020072541 A1 WO2020072541 A1 WO 2020072541A1 US 2019054138 W US2019054138 W US 2019054138W WO 2020072541 A1 WO2020072541 A1 WO 2020072541A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
cathode
sump
electrolysis cell
aluminum electrolysis
top portion
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/US2019/054138
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Xinghua Liu
Benjamin D. Mosser
Mark RIPEPI
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Alcoa USA Corp
Original Assignee
Alcoa USA Corp
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Alcoa USA Corp filed Critical Alcoa USA Corp
Publication of WO2020072541A1 publication Critical patent/WO2020072541A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C3/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts
    • C25C3/06—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of aluminium
    • C25C3/08—Cell construction, e.g. bottoms, walls, cathodes

Definitions

  • the present disclosure is directed towards various embodiments of an electrolytic cell having aluminum drainable cathodes. More specifically, the present disclosure is directed towards utilizing novel cathode structures (e.g. aluminum drainable cathodes) in an electrolysis cell to enable molten aluminum production on the surface of the cathode structures with combined draining of the molten aluminum to a collection area for collection.
  • novel cathode structures e.g. aluminum drainable cathodes
  • an apparatus includes: a cathode structure disposed within an electrolysis cell, wherein the electrolysis cell is configured to produce metal on a surface of the cathode structure (metal is also produced on the surface of the floor of the cell), wherein the cathode structure is configured to fit along a floor of the electrolysis cell, wherein the cathode structure has a sloped surface when compared to a generally horizontal plane, wherein via the sloped surface, the cathode structure is configured to drain a metal product from the sloped surface towards a lower end of the cathode structure, and wherein the lower end of the cathode structure connects to the floor of the electrolysis cell.
  • the cathode structure has a triangular geometry.
  • the sloped surface of the cathode structure has a wall angle of 15 degrees to not greater than 89 degrees.
  • a height of the cathode structure is from 5% to 95% of a height of a molten bath within the electrolytic cell.
  • an upper end of the cathode structure is angled.
  • the upper end of the cathode structure has an arcuate edge.
  • the cathode structure is a monolithic member (e.g. ceramic or composite) attached to the floor of the electrolytic cell.
  • the lower end of the monolithic member comprises a mechanical attachment device configured to enable mechanical attachment of the monolithic member to the cell floor.
  • the lower end of the monolithic member comprises an adhesive configured to enable mechanical attachment of the monolithic member to the cell floor.
  • the cathode structure comprises at least two cathode plates attached to a support member, wherein the cathode plates, and not the support member, are in contact with the molten electrolyte bath.
  • the cathode structure comprises at least two cathode plates mechanically attached to the cell floor, wherein the at least two cathode plates and the cell bottom define an empty volume.
  • the cathode assembly comprises a plurality of cathode structures configured in a generally parallel, interspaced configuration along the floor of an electrolysis cell.
  • the cathode structures are configured as part of carbon blocks along the floor of the cell, with an aluminum wettable coating covering the carbonaceous material.
  • the cathode structures are configured as non-aluminum wettable components along the floor of the cell, with an aluminum wettable coating covering the non-aluminum wettable components.
  • the cathode structures comprise a plurality of tiles adhered into place over a carbon block with an adhesive such that the adhesive and tiles cooperate in the cathode wall angle as a metal drained cathode surface.
  • the metal produced at the cathode structure flows to a floor of the cell, wherein the floor has a cathode drain angle.
  • a collection area is positioned adjacent to a cathode area in the electrolytic cell, wherein the cathode drain angle is configured to direct metal product to the collection area.
  • the cathode drain angle is from 0 degree to 15 degrees.
  • an apparatus includes: a cathode assembly comprising a cathode structure electrically configured in an aluminum electrolysis cell to electrolytically participate in metal production, wherein the metal is produced on a surface of the cathode structure, wherein the cathode structure is configured to fit along a floor of the aluminum electrolysis cell, further wherein the cathode structure has a cathode wall angle with a sloped configuration when compared to a generally horizontal plane, wherein via the cathode wall angle, the cathode structure is configured to drain a metal product from a surface thereof towards the floor of the cell, and wherein the cathode structure is further configured with a cathode drain angle along the floor of the cell, such that the metal product drained via the cathode wall angle is further directed along the floor of the cell by the cathode drain angle into a collection area positioned adjacent to a cathode area in the electrolytic cell.
  • the collection area is located along an inner region of the cathode assembly.
  • the collection area is located at least one of: along at least one sidewall of the cell, along at least one end wall of the cell.
  • the cathode assembly is configured with a horizontal portion between the cathode structure and the collection area.
  • the apparatus further comprises: an anode assembly, configured from a plurality of anodes, wherein each anode is a monolithic block of carbon having an anode profile configured to correspond to the cathode wall angle of the cathode assembly; wherein the cathode structures of the cathode assembly and the anodes of the anode assembly are separated by an anode-to-cathode distance filled with molten electrolyte.
  • an anode-to-cathode distance is 1 ⁇ 4” to 2”.
  • anode profile is configured with beveled edges.
  • each anode is further configured with at least one anode slot configured along a lower end of the anode, which are configured to direct bubbles and/or trapped gasses away from the lower end of the anode and into the molten electrolyte bath.
  • a method includes: during rebuild of an electrolytic cell, mechanically attaching a cathode assembly to a cell bottom, wherein the cathode assembly is configured with a plurality of cathode structures constructed of an aluminum wettable material, wherein each cathode structure comprises a cathode wall angle to promote a metal product to drain from an upper or middle portion of the cathode structure to a lower portion of the cathode structure; and after the electrolytic cell is preheated, positioning an anode assembly comprising a plurality of anodes, wherein the anodes are configured with a beveled edge corresponding generally to the cathode wall angle, such that the anode-to-cathode distance is constant whether measured between the corresponding generally horizontal portions of the cathode assembly and anodes or when measured between the cathode structures having a cathode wall angle and the beveled edge of the anodes.
  • the method further comprises heating a molten salt bath configured in the cell; feeding a feedstock material into the cell, wherein the feedstock contains a metal compound (e.g. alumina) of the desired metal product (e.g. aluminum metal); and electrolytically producing metal in the cell (e.g. to transform the metal compound containing feedstock material into a metal product via electrolysis).
  • a metal compound e.g. alumina
  • the desired metal product e.g. aluminum metal
  • electrolytically producing metal in the cell e.g. to transform the metal compound containing feedstock material into a metal product via electrolysis.
  • titanium diboride is an aluminum-wettable material well suited for this purpose.
  • currents in the metal pad can be strong enough to move TiB2 plates along the carbon cathode surface if they are not fixed in position.
  • the most common failure mechanism of bonding of TiB2 plates to the cathode floor with a carbon-based adhesive is debonding between the adhesive and the TiB2 plate surface being.
  • mechanically locking TiB2 cathode plates either together or to the carbon cathode block negates at least some of the pitfalls of using an adhesive between TiB2 plates and the carbon cathode as the sole attachment method.
  • Adhesive bonding can be used to assemble the desired geometry but is not required to maintain position of TiB2 cathode plates during cell operation.
  • TiB2 structures that extend above the cathode floor do not require underlying carbon support, they can be free-standing.
  • one or more cathode assemblies are retrofitted into an existing electrolysis cell for metal production.
  • an aluminum electrolysis cell having a sump includes a cathode block positioned below a plurality of anodes.
  • the cathode block has a sump at least partially disposed within the cathode block.
  • the sump has a first sump sidewall, a second sump sidewall and a sump bottom. At least one of the first and second sump sidewalls is sloped relative to vertical.
  • Such an aluminum electrolysis cell may facilitate, for instance, improved aluminum production efficiency, e.g., due to less frequent electrolysis cell tapping.
  • the sump has a has a sump bottom.
  • a sump bottom may have any appropriate slope to facilitate flow of metal toward one or more metal extraction area (s).
  • at least a portion of the sump bottom is horizontal (defined below), e.g. when metal flow to one or more metal extraction area(s) is sufficient due to other features of the aluminum electrolysis cell.
  • at least a portion of the sump bottom is sloped (e.g., to facilitate the flow of aluminum metal towards metal extraction areas).
  • a sump may have any shape suitable to facilitate flow of metal toward one or more metal extraction area(s).
  • at least a portion of a cross section of the sump is trapezoidal (e.g. to provide a larger sump volume and facilitate less frequent cell tapping).
  • at least a portion of a cross section of the sump is rectangular.
  • at least a portion of a cross section of the sump is square.
  • at least a portion of a cross section of the sump is triangular (i.e., the sump bottom is an intersection point of the first sump sidewall and the second sump sidewall, e.g, in order to facilitate rapid flow of aluminum metal through the triangular sump portion).
  • a sump cross section may have any geometric shape, provided the sump is suitable for directing metal flow towards a metal extraction area.
  • the electrolysis cells described herein may have any suitable number of sumps.
  • the aluminum electrolysis cell has a single sump.
  • the aluminum electrolysis cell e.g., the cathode block
  • the second sump portion may be parallel to the first sump portion.
  • the second sump portion may be in fluid communication with the first sump portion.
  • the first sump portion has at least one sloped sidewall, and the second sump portion is absent a sloped sidewall.
  • the aluminum electrolysis cell has at least two individual sumps that are not in fluid communication with each other.
  • the cathode block has a top portion adjacent the first sump sidewall.
  • the top portion is horizontal.
  • the top portion is sloped relative to horizontal (e.g., to facilitate the flow of aluminum from cathode surfaces to the sump).
  • the slope of the top portion is not greater than 15° relative to horizontal.
  • the slope of the top portion is not greater than 10° relative to horizontal.
  • the slope of the top portion is not greater than 5° relative to horizontal. In one embodiment, the slope of the top portion is at least relative to horizontal. In one embodiment, the slope of the top portion is sloped toward the sump (e.g. to facilitate the flow of aluminum from the top portion to the sump). In another embodiment, the slope of the top portion is sloped away from the sump.
  • the cathode blocks described herein may have any suitable number of top portions.
  • the cathode block has at least two top portions, a first top portion and a second top portion.
  • the second top portion is adjacent the second sump sidewall.
  • the second top portion is horizontal.
  • the second top portion is sloped relative to horizontal (e.g., to facilitate the flow of aluminum from cathode surfaces to the sump).
  • the slope of the second top portion is sloped toward the sump.
  • the slope of the second top portion is sloped away from the sump.
  • both the first top portion and the second top portion are sloped.
  • both the first top portion and the second top portion are sloped towards the sump. In yet another embodiment, the first top portion is sloped toward the sump and the second top portion is sloped away from the sump. In another embodiment, both the first top portion and the second top portion are horizontal.
  • a sump includes at least one metal extraction area.
  • a bottom portion of the sump has a sloped portion sloping towards the metal extraction area (e.g. to facilitate flow of metal towards the metal extraction area).
  • each sump has at least one metal extraction area (i.e., the first sump has a first extraction area, and the second sump has a second extraction area, to facilitate tapping the aluminum electrolysis cell in multiple locations).
  • an aluminum electrolysis cell having suitable cathode configurations.
  • an aluminum electrolysis cell has a cathode block positioned below a plurality of anodes.
  • the cathode block has a sump.
  • the sump has a first sump sidewall, a second sump sidewall and a sump bottom.
  • the cathode block has a top portion adjacent the first sump sidewall and a plate member on the top portion.
  • the plate member has a first end that extends beyond the first sump sidewall to define an overhang portion.
  • Such an aluminum electrolysis cell may facilitate improved efficiency in aluminum production, e.g., because the plate member provides additional cathode surface area without reducing sump volume.
  • the plate member is sloped (e.g. in order to facilitate the flow of molten aluminum in to the sump).
  • the slope of the plate member is the same as the slope of the top portion of the cathode block.
  • the slope of the plate member is different than the slope of the top portion.
  • the plate member is horizontal and the top portion is sloped.
  • the plate member is sloped and the top portion is horizontal.
  • the aluminum electrolysis cells described herein may have any suitable number of sumps.
  • the aluminum electrolysis cell e.g., the cathode block
  • the second sump has a third sump sidewall, a fourth sump sidewall and a second sump bottom.
  • the plate member has a second end that extends beyond the third sump sidewall to define a second overhang portion.
  • there is a gap between the second end and the fourth sump sidewall e.g., to facilitate the flow of molten aluminum from both ends of the plate member in to the first and second sump).
  • first and second sumps may be distinct sumps, i.e., the first sump is not in fluid communication with the second sump.
  • first and second sumps may be portions of a single sump, i.e., the first sump is in fluid communication with the second sump.
  • the aluminum electrolysis cells described herein may have cathode blocks with any suitable number of top portions and plate members.
  • the cathode block has two top portions: a first top portion and a second top portion.
  • the second plate member has a third end that extends beyond the second sump sidewall to define an overhang portion.
  • an aluminum electrolysis cell having appropriate mechanical attachments.
  • the aluminum electrolysis cell has a cathode block positioned below a plurality of anodes.
  • the cathode block has a plurality of cathode plates, and at least one of the cathode plates is in contact with the cathode block.
  • a first cathode plate is mechanically attached via a fastener to the cathode block and/or a second cathode plate.
  • the fastener comprises a tab and slot arrangement.
  • the fastener comprises a pin arrangement.
  • Such an aluminum electrolysis cell may, for instance, improve the mechanical stability of the cathode.
  • the first cathode plate has a tab and the second cathode plate has a slot (e.g., for mechanical interlocking of the first and second cathode plates).
  • the tab has a tab shape and the slot has a corresponding slot shape, such that the tab may mechanically interlock with the slot.
  • the tab has a first tab side, a second tab side, and a third tab side, and the slot has a first slot side, a second slot side, and a third slot side, and the first tab side corresponds to the first slot side, the second tab side corresponds to the second slot side, the third tab side corresponds to the third slot side such that the tab is configured to mechanically interlock with the slot.
  • the first tab side and the second tab side define a tab angle.
  • the tab angle is not greater than 90° (e.g., such that when the cathode plates are connected via the slot and tab, the tab angle prevents the cathode plates from separating during operation).
  • both the first and second cathode plates are horizontal (e.g., for mechanical interlocking of cathode floor plates).
  • first cathode plate is horizontal
  • second cathode plate is vertical (e.g., for mechanical interlocking of cathode floor plates to cathode sidewall plates).
  • first cathode plate is horizontal
  • the second cathode plate is neither horizontal nor vertical, i.e. is sloped (e.g. for mechanical interlocking of cathode floor plates to sloped cathode plates).
  • first cathode plate is vertical and the second cathode plate is sloped (e.g., for mechanical interlocking of sloped cathode plates to cathode sidewall plates).
  • first cathode plate is neither horizontal nor vertical and the second cathode plate is neither horizontal nor vertical (e.g. for mechanical interlocking of sloped cathode plates).
  • a cross section of the tab has a sloped portion (e.g, for improved mechanical interlocking).
  • the sloped portion is linear.
  • a cross section of the tab is curved.
  • the cross section of the tab may have any shape and/or slope, provided the tab mechanically interlocks with the slot.
  • the slot is in the cathode block (e.g. for mechanically interlocking a cathode plate to the cathode block via a tab on the cathode plate).
  • the slot is a cavity in the cathode block.
  • the cavity in the cathode block may be any size or shape provided a tab on a cathode plate fits within the cavity.
  • at least some of the volume of the cavity around a cathode plate tab is filled with an adhesive.
  • at least some of the volume of the cavity around a cathode plate tab is filled with cathode block material.
  • the cavity in the cathode block may be filled with any suitable material, provided it secures the cathode plate in the cavity.
  • the first cathode plate has at least one aperture
  • the cathode block has a complimentary cavity corresponding to the aperture in the first cathode plate.
  • at least one pin is positioned in the cavity in the cathode block and through the aperture in the cathode plate, such that the pin is at least partially in contact with the cathode block and the cathode plate (e.g., to secure the cathode plate to the underlying cathode block).
  • the pin may have any suitable shape, provided it is adapted to interface with the aperture in the cathode plate and the cavity in the cathode block in order to secure the two together.
  • the pin is cylindrical in shape.
  • the pin has a smooth surface.
  • the pin has a non-smooth surface.
  • the pin is a nail.
  • the pin is a screw.
  • the pin is a rivet.
  • the cathode plate may have any suitable number of apertures to accommodate pins, provided the cathode block has corresponding cavities.
  • Figure 1A-C depicts various embodiments of a cathode structure and corresponding anode structure/anode profiles in accordance with the instant disclosure.
  • the complementary anode profile is depicted compared to the cathode structure (plurality of cathode members configured along the cell bottom and/or cathode block).
  • Alternative embodiments for configuring the cathode members of the cathode assembly are referenced in Figure 1A.
  • Figures 1B and 1C depict alternative embodiments, where 1B provides a drain angle on the cathode structure and 1C does not (though both have a collection portion/sump depicted).
  • Figure 2A-B depicts the results of two comparative examples of the disclosed embodiments compared to conventional aluminum production technologies.
  • Figure 2A provides a comparative example of a specific Soderberg smelter vs. retrofitting and Greenfield of the Soderberg technology with sloped anode and sloped cathode cell configurations described herein.
  • Figure 2B provides a comparative example of a specific Pre-bake cell smelter vs. retrofitting and Greenfield of the Pre-bake cell technology with sloped anode and cathode configurations described herein.
  • Figure 3 depicts one or more embodiments in use, as applied to an existing smelting line, wherein each cell, one-by-one, can be retrofitted while the remaining cells in the line remain in use with conventional technology.
  • one or more embodied configurations can be deployed cell-by-cell while the remainder of the line remains in use, to increase efficiency while not completely converting (retrofitting) all cells in a line at one time (i.e. which would require the line to be down).
  • the cells equipped with conventional cells are also configured with an auxiliary line/auxiliary bus, which is routed to a rectifier to address differences in current that the advanced smelting cells (with embodiments of the current disclosure) and conventional smelting cells (which operate without cathode structures of the present disclosure).
  • one or more embodiments of the instant disclosure enable flexible options to retrofit the technology into existing smelter based on minimum capital investment to achieve maximum performance and financial improvement of a line.
  • the new cell/pot with advanced technology can be retrofitted into exist pot line through pot-by-pot, or section by section change-out.
  • Figure 4 depicts a plan side view of an anode having an anode profile corresponding to a cathode profile, further illustrating the bevel ed/angled edges of the anode block and an anode slot that is configured in the lower-most anode surface and extending upwards towards the anode body, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • Figure 5A depicts an embodiment of a cathode structure end view, depicting a plurality of aluminum wettable cathode tiles configured along the surface of the cathode assembly end, and configured (attached in place) with adhesive containing an aluminum wettable additive and/or refractory component, in accordance with the instant disclosure.
  • the cathode tiles generally extend continuously from the upper most portion of the cathode structure to the lower most end of the cathode structure (e.g. adjacent to the cell floor), in accordance with the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 5B depicts the cut away side view of the cathode structure of Figure 5A, showing the cathode tiles configured/attached with adhesive onto the surface of the support member which is enclosed beneath (contained within) the cathode tiles and adhesive, in accordance with the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 5C depicts an embodiment of a cathode structure end view, depicting a plurality of aluminum wettable cathode tiles configured along the surface of the cathode assembly end, and configured (attached in place) with adhesive containing an aluminum wettable additive and/or refractory component, in accordance with the instant disclosure.
  • the cathode tiles are generally configured vertically and horizontally and adhered onto the surface of the cathode support to form the cathode structure (e.g. adjacent to the cell floor), in accordance with the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 5D depicts the cut away side view of the cathode structure of Figure 5C, showing the cathode tiles configured/attached with adhesive onto the surface of the support member which is enclosed beneath (contained within) the cathode tiles and adhesive, in accordance with the instant disclosure.
  • each cathode structure e.g. at its lower most end
  • the next cathode structure e.g. at its lower most end
  • an aluminum wettable portion e.g. members, tiles, aluminum wettable coatings, and/or combinations thereof
  • Figure 6 depicts a cut away side view of an embodiment of a cathode structure, wherein a cathodic coating (aluminum wettable coating) is configured onto (e.g. painted, sprayed, brushed, rolled, and/or combinations thereof) the surface of a support member, in accordance with the instant disclosure.
  • a cathodic coating aluminum wettable coating
  • each cathode structure e.g. at its lower most end
  • the next cathode structure e.g. at its lower most end
  • an aluminum wettable portion e.g. members, tiles, aluminum wettable coatings, and/or combinations thereof
  • Figure 7 depicts a cut away side view of an embodiment of a cathode assembly, wherein the cathode member is a monolithic block that is configured onto the cell floor, in accordance with the instant disclosure. Also, depicted are aluminum wettable portions that are configured to extend across the generally flat cell floor, and connect each cathode structure (e.g. at its lower most end) the next cathode structure (e.g. at its lower most end) with an aluminum wettable portion (e.g. members, tiles, aluminum wettable coatings, and/or combinations thereof), in accordance with the instant disclosure.
  • an aluminum wettable portion e.g. members, tiles, aluminum wettable coatings, and/or combinations thereof
  • Figure 8 depicts a schematic cut away side view of an embodiment of an electrolysis cell, depicting a cathode assembly and corresponding anodes with anode profiles configured to accommodate the cathode structures of the cathode assembly, in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • the cathode structures are configured to extend in a spaced relation (e.g. alternating between corresponding anodes) with cathode portions configured to extend from a lower end of one cathode structure beneath the lower surface of the corresponding anode and adjacent to the cathode floor, to a position adjacent to a lower portion of the neighboring cathode structure, in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • Figure 9A depicts a partial top plan view of an electrolysis cell, depicting a sump along an end of the cell, in accordance with the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 9B depicts a top plan view of an electrolysis cell, depicting two sumps extending from side to side, along the middle portion of the cell, in accordance with the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 9C depicts a top plan view of an electrolysis cell, depicting two sumps extending along each opposing sides of the cell, in accordance with the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 9D depicts a partial top plan view of an electrolysis cell, depicting two opposing sumps which extend generally across the middle of the cell and in spaced relation from end to end, in accordance with the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 10 depicts an embodiment illustrating the attachment configuration of the cathode member to the floor of the cell, depicting a male engagement on the lower end/bottom facing portion of the cathode member that corresponds to a female portion in the floor, in accordance with the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 11 depicts an embodiment illustrating the attachment configuration of the cathode member to the floor of the cell, depicting an adhesive/glue along the lower end/bottom facing portion of the cathode member that attaches/adheres the cathode member to the floor, in accordance with the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 12 depicts an embodiment illustrating the attachment configuration of the cathode member to the floor of the cell, depicting two corresponding grooves/attachments sites in the cathode block (extending from the surface of the floor into the cathode block and configured to hold/retain the lower ends of the corresponding cathode plates (and/or tiles) of the cathode structure), in accordance with the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 13 depicts a generic configuration of an anode and a cathode in a cell (e.g. cell floor, bath to vapor interface) to generally define three variables, the anode to cathode distance, the anode to cathode overlap, and the cathode height (a percentage of total bath height), in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • a cell e.g. cell floor, bath to vapor interface
  • Figure 14A depicts a graph of the bath alumina concentration vs. cell resistance for an electrolysis cell having a graphite anode with a flat bottom and an ACD of 3/8”.
  • Figure 14B depicts a graph of the bath alumina concentration vs. cell resistance for an electrolysis cell having a carbon anode with a slotted bottom and an ACD of 3/4”.
  • Figure 15A and 15C-H depicts a partial top plan view of an electrolysis cell in accordance with some embodiments of the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 15A depicts a sump which extends along a perimeter of the electrolysis cell in accordance with some embodiments of the instant disclosure.
  • FIG 15B depicts a cross section view of the electrolysis cell of FIG. 15 A.
  • Figure 15H depicts two opposing sumps which extend generally across the middle of the cell and in spaced relation from end to end, in accordance with the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 15D depicts a sump which extends along a first and second sidewalls and a first end wall of the electrolysis cell in accordance with some embodiments of the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 15E depicts a sump which extends along a first sidewall and a first end wall and second end wall of the electrolysis cell.
  • Figure 15F depicts a sump which extends along a first end wall and generally across the middle of the cell from a first end wall to a second end wall in accordance with some embodiments of the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 15G depicts a sump which extends along a first side wall and generally across the middle of the cell from the first side wall to a second side wall in accordance with some embodiments of the instant disclosure.
  • the sump has a slope in a direction toward a metal extraction point.
  • Figure 15H depicts a sump which extends along a perimeter of the electrolysis cell, wherein the sump has a slope in a direction toward a metal extraction point in accordance with some embodiments of the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 16A-16D depicts a cross-section of the exemplary electrolysis cell shown in Figure 15H in accordance with some embodiments of the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 16A depicts a cross section of a sump, which extends generally across the middle of the cell, having a vertical sidewall in relation to a bottom of the sump in accordance with some embodiments of the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 16B depicts a cover plate atop a surface of the cathode, wherein the cover plate extends past an edge of the cathode to hang over the sump in accordance with some embodiments of the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 16C depicts a top surface of the cathode having a slope towards a sump which extends generally across the middle of the cell, in accordance with some embodiments of the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 16D depicts a top surface of the cathode having a slope away from a sump which extends generally across the middle of the cell, wherein sump which extends generally across the middle of the cell has angled sidewalls (e.g. sidewalls which form a“V” shape), in accordance with some embodiments of the instant disclosure.
  • FIG. 17A is a partial cross section view of the electrolysis cell of FIG. 15H, depicting a sump channel and plate member arrangement in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 17B is a partial cross section view of the electrolysis cell of FIG. 15H, depicting a sump channel and plate member arrangement in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 17C is a partial cross section view of the electrolysis cell of FIG. 15H, depicting an arrangement of two sump channels and plate member in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • Figure 18A-18G depict various exemplary embodiments of securing TiB2 plates to an underlying carbon cathode support.
  • Figure 18A depicts an exemplary aluminum electrolysis cell with TiB2 pins securing a TiB2 plate to an underlying carbon cathode support with TiB2 pins that extend into a hole drilled into the carbon in accordance with some embodiments of the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 18B depicts TiB2 plates with tabs which fit into corresponding slots in TiB2 floor plates in accordance with some embodiments of the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 18C depicts an edge of a TiB2 plate embedded into the carbon cathode floor by way of a key and slot configuration in accordance with some embodiments of the instant disclosure.
  • Figure 18D depicts vertical TiB2 plates positioned by interlocked a slot and tab configuration in accordance with some embodiments of the instant disclosure.
  • FIG. 18E is a top down view of a cathode floor plate with a slot and a cathode floor plate with a tab in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • FIGS. 18F and 18G are a cross section views of cathode plate edges in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 19A is a perspective view of a fastener for securing cathode plates to the underlying cathode block, in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 19B is a partial view of the exemplary aluminum electrolysis cell shown in FIG. 18 A, depicting a fastener and aperture arrangement for attaching cathode plates to an underlying cathode block, in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 19C is a partial cross section view of FIG. 19B, showing a fastener and aperture arrangement for attaching cathode plates to an underlying cathode block, in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • electrolysis means any process that brings about a chemical reaction by passing electric current through a material.
  • electrolysis occurs where a species of metal is reduced in an electrolytic cell to produce a metal product.
  • electrolysis include primary metal production.
  • electrolytically produced metals include: rare earth metals, non-ferrous metals (e.g. copper, nickel, zinc, magnesium, lead, titanium, aluminum, and rare earth metals).
  • electrolytic cell means a device for producing electrolysis.
  • the electrolytic cell includes a smelting pot, or a line of smelting pots (e.g. multiple pots).
  • the electrolytic cell is fitted with electrodes, which act as a conductor, through which a current enters or leaves a nonmetallic medium (e.g. electrolyte bath).
  • electrode means positively charged electrodes (e.g. anodes) or negatively charged electrodes (e.g. cathodes).
  • anode means the positive electrode (or terminal) by which current enters an electrolytic cell.
  • the anodes are constructed of electrically conductive materials.
  • the anode is constructed from a carbon material (e.g. graphite- based anode, carbon anode).
  • a carbon material e.g. graphite- based anode, carbon anode.
  • the anode is an oxygen evolving anode (sometimes called an inert anode).
  • the inert anode is configured to be dimensionally stable and/or have a corrosion rate significantly less than a corresponding carbon anode.
  • Some non limiting examples of inert anode materials include: metals, metal alloys, ceramics, cermets, and/or combinations thereof.
  • anode assembly includes one or more anode(s) connected with a pin/rod and a support (e.g. to adjust/raise/lower the anode).
  • the anode assembly includes the corresponding electrical bus work, which is configured to direct current into the anode via the pin.
  • “support” means a member that maintains another object(s) in place.
  • the support is a cathode support— a structure that retains the cathode plates in place (e.g. in sloped configuration).
  • the support is in electrical communication with the cathode plates and/or cathode assembly.
  • the support is an insulator and/or is not configured in electrical communication with the cathode plates and/or cathode assembly.
  • the cathode support is constructed of a material that is resistant to attack from the corrosive bath.
  • the support is constructed of refractory material, carbon or carbon composite materials, and/or hollow structure (e.g. filler with sufficient structural support and rigidity to retain the cathode plates in place).
  • electrical bus work refers to the electrical connectors of one or more component.
  • the anode, cathode, and/or other cell components can have electrical bus work to connect the components together.
  • the electrical bus work includes pin connectors in the anodes, the rod/bar to connect the anodes and/or cathodes, electrical circuits for (or between) various cell components, and combinations thereof.
  • cathode means: the negative electrode or terminal by which current leaves an electrolytic cell. In some embodiments, the cathode is electrically connected through the bottom of the cell (e.g. current collector bar and electrical buswork).
  • cathode plate means a thin portion of cathode material. In some embodiments, cathode plates are generally positioned on top of the cathode block. In some embodiments, electrochemical reduction of metal takes place on cathode plate surfaces.
  • the cathodes are constructed of an electrically conductive, aluminum wettable material.
  • wettable means: a liquid/molten material having a contact angle on a solid surface not greater than 90 degrees.
  • cathode material examples include: transition metal borides (e.g. titanium borides, zirconium borides; hafnium borides); metal borides and carbon composite materials; and/or combinations thereof.
  • transition metal borides e.g. titanium borides, zirconium borides; hafnium borides
  • metal borides and carbon composite materials and/or combinations thereof.
  • cathode assembly refers to the cathodic portion of the electrolysis cell configured to remove current from the cell.
  • the cathode assembly includes the following components: current collector subassembly/ies, current collector bar(s), cathode block, cathode structure(s) (e.g. configured with cathode members (plates, tiles, cathode coatings), support members), mechanical attachment device(s) and corresponding attachment component(s), adhesive/glue, cathode portion(s) (e.g. configured to attach to the floor in a generally horizontal position and extend between cathode structures), sump(s), the electrical buswork, and/or combinations thereof.
  • cathode structure means: the cathode components (e.g. monolithic blocks, cathode plates positioned on a support member (e.g. with optional adhesives, or attaching components), cathode tiles positioned on a support member (e.g. with optional adhesives, or attaching components), cathode coatings positioned on a support member, adhesives to join/adhere the components together, mechanical attachment devices and corresponding attachment components on the cathode structure, and/or combinations thereof.
  • the cathode components e.g. monolithic blocks, cathode plates positioned on a support member (e.g. with optional adhesives, or attaching components), cathode tiles positioned on a support member (e.g. with optional adhesives, or attaching components), cathode coatings positioned on a support member, adhesives to join/adhere the components together, mechanical attachment devices and corresponding attachment components on the cathode structure, and/or combinations thereof.
  • the cathode structure is in communication with the cell bottom and extends upward from the cell bottom. In some embodiments, the cathode structure is in communication with the metal product/metal pad (e.g. metal formed on the surface of the cathode structure). In some embodiments, the cathode structure is at a height which is below the bath-air interface. In some embodiments, the cathode structure is located in the electrolyte bath.
  • cathode plates are connected (e.g. mechanically and electrically) to the cathode support. In some embodiments, 2, 4, 6, 8, or more cathode plates are attached to a cathode support.
  • the electrical connection is provided to the cathode structures by the metal pad. In some embodiments, the electrical connection is provided to the cathode structures by contact with a cathodically polarized cell bottom.
  • the angle of the cathode structure wall (beta) is at least 5° to not greater than 89°.
  • the angle of the cathode structure wall (beta) is at least 15° to not greater than 75°.
  • the angle of the cathode structure wall (beta) is at least 30° to not greater than 65°.
  • the angle of the cathode structure wall (beta) is at least 15° to not greater than 35°.
  • the angle of the cathode structure wall (beta) is at least 55° to not greater than 75°.
  • the angle of the cathode structure wall angle is: at least 5°; at least 10°; at least 15°; at least 20°; at least 25°; at least 30°; at least 35°; at least 40°; at least 45°; at least 50°; at least 55°; at least 60°; at least 65°; at least 70°; at least 75°; at least 80°; or at least 85°.
  • the cathode structure wall angle is: not greater than 5°; not greater than 10°; not greater than 15°; not greater than 20°; not greater than 25°; not greater than 30°; not greater than 35°; not greater than 40°; not greater than 45°; not greater than 50°; not greater than 55°; not greater than 60°; not greater than 65°; not greater than 70°; not greater than 75°; not greater than 80°; or not greater than 85°.
  • the angle of the cathode drain angle (alpha) is 0° (e.g. a flat surface) to not greater than 15°.
  • the angle of the cathode drain angle (alpha) is at least 0.1° to not greater than 15°.
  • the angle of the cathode drain angle (alpha) is at least 1° to not greater than 10°.
  • the angle of the cathode drain angle (alpha) is at least 2° to not greater than 5°.
  • the angle of the cathode drain angle (alpha) is: at least 1°; at least 5°; at least 10°; or at least 15°. [0131] In some embodiments, the angle of the cathode drain angle (alpha) is: not greater than 1°; not greater than 5°; not greater than 10°; or not greater than 15°.
  • outer shell means an outer-most protecting cover portion of the cell sidewall.
  • the outer shell is the protecting cover of the inner wall of the electrolytic cell.
  • the outer shell is constructed of a hard material that encloses the cell (e.g. steel).
  • current collector bar refers to a bar that collects current from the cell.
  • the current collector bar collects current from the cathode and transfers the current to the electrical buswork to remove the current from the system.
  • the current collector bar is located below a cathode structure.
  • electrolyte means: a medium in which the flow of electrical current is carried out by the movement of ions/ionic species.
  • an electrolyte may comprise molten salt.
  • the electrolytic bath composition includes: NaF— A1F3 (in an aluminum electrolysis cell), NaF, A1F3, CaF2, MgF2, LiF, KF, and combinations thereof— with dissolved metal compounds (e.g. alumina).
  • molten means in a flowable form (e.g. liquid) through the application of heat.
  • the electrolytic bath is in molten form (e.g. at least about 750° C).
  • “retrofit” means: to modify equipment/facility that is already in service using parts developed or made available.
  • metal product means the product which is produced by electrolysis.
  • the metal product forms at the bottom of an electrolysis cell as a metal pad.
  • metal products include: aluminum, nickel, magnesium, copper, zinc, and rare earth metals.
  • metal pad means: the metal product of electrolysis.
  • the metal pad forms from molten metal (aluminum metal) that forms on the cathode surface and drains into the cell bottom and/or sump.
  • “cell sidewall” means the sidewall of an electrolysis cell. In some embodiments, the cell sidewall runs parametrically around the cell bottom and extends upward from the cell bottom to define the body of the electrolysis cell and define the volume where the electrolyte bath is held.
  • “sump” means a reservoir serving as a drain or receptacle for metal accumulation proximal the bottom of an electrolysis cell. The words“sump” and“trough” may be used interchangeably.
  • sump sidewall means the sidewall of a sump.
  • horizontal means parallel ⁇ 2° to the electrolysis cell bottom (e.g. as per FIGS. 8 and 15B).
  • slot means a cavity or opening.
  • a slot has a corresponding tab for mechanically interlocking.
  • tab means an appendage or extending member.
  • a tab has a corresponding slot for mechanically interlocking.
  • an apparatus e.g. cathode assembly
  • a cathode structure electrically configured in an electrolysis cell to electrolytically participate in metal production, wherein the metal is formed on a surface of the cathode structure, wherein the cathode structure is configured to fit along a floor of an aluminum electrolysis cell (e.g. where the floor is on top of the cathode block or the refractory brick on top of the cathode collector assembly), further wherein the cathode structure is configured with a cathode wall angle having an angled or sloped configuration when compared to a generally horizontal plane (i.e.
  • the cathode member having an upper end closest to a bath- vapor interface, a lower end configured along the bottom of the cell, and a middle portion positioned between the upper end and the lower end), wherein via the cathode wall angle, the cathode member is configured to drain a metal product from the surface thereof towards the lower end of the cathode structure.
  • the cathode structure is configured with a triangular geometry (e.g. with one end lying flat along the bottom of the cell/attached to the bottom of the cell).
  • the cathode structure wall angle (e.g. beta) is from 30 degrees to not greater than 89 degrees.
  • the cathode structure wall angle (beta) is from 30 degrees to not greater than 80 degrees.
  • the upper end of the cathode structure is configured with an angle (e.g. sharp edges).
  • the upper end of the cathode structure is configured with an arcuate edge (rounded edge).
  • the cathode structure is a monolithic (e.g. unitary) ceramic member (e.g. aluminum wettable ceramic member) that is configured to attach to the cell bottom.
  • the lower end of the monolithic ceramic member is configured with a mechanical attachment device (e.g. which is configured to enable mechanical attachment to the cell bottom).
  • the lower end of the monolithic cathode member is configured with a male extension portion that is configured to fit into (e.g. and be adhered or glued into) a corresponding female via in the cell bottom (e.g. cathode block).
  • the cathode structure comprises a plurality of cathode plates that are configured with their respective upper ends adjacent to one another and corresponding lower ends configured adjacent to one another (e.g. to provide a generally zig zag pattern when viewed at the cross-section).
  • At least two cathode plates are configured to a support member, such that the cathode plates, and not the support member, are in contact with the molten electrolyte bath and/or the metal (metal product).
  • the cathode plates are attached to the support member.
  • the cathode plates are glued and/or adhered to the support member.
  • the cathode plates are mechanically attached to the support member.
  • the cathode plates are mechanically attached to the cell bottom (e.g. the portion between the cathode plates is empty, there is no support member or filler material positioned between the cathode plates).
  • the support member is configured from refractory materials, a ceramic material (e.g. non-aluminum wettable), a porous filler material, a filler material, a carbonaceous material, a composite material (e.g. carbonaceous and ceramic material) and/or combinations thereof.
  • a ceramic material e.g. non-aluminum wettable
  • a porous filler material e.g. non-aluminum wettable
  • a filler material e.g. non-aluminum wettable
  • a filler material e.g. non-aluminum wettable
  • a porous filler material e.g. non-aluminum wettable
  • a filler material e.g. non-aluminum wettable
  • a porous filler material e.g. non-aluminum wettable
  • a filler material e.g. carbonaceous and ceramic material
  • the support member is in electrical communication with the cathode plates. In some embodiments, the support member is not in electrical communication with the cathode plates (e.g. the support member is an electrical insulator material).
  • the cathode structure comprises a plurality of cathode members configured in a generally parallel, interspaced configuration along the floor of an electrolysis cell.
  • the cathode structure comprises a negative polarization (e.g. is in electrical communication with the cell) via: (1) contact with the metal pad; (2) attachment with a cathode block configured along the floor/bottom end of the cell; (3) attachment to a cathode collector bar subassembly, and/or combinations thereof.
  • a negative polarization e.g. is in electrical communication with the cell
  • the cathode structures are configured as support members configured/attached onto the cathode block (e.g. carbon blocks) along the floor of the cell, with an aluminum wettable coating (e.g. paint) covering the carbonaceous material (e.g. the coating is dipped, sprayed, painted, rolled, or otherwise applied to the surface of the carbon blocks).
  • an aluminum wettable coating e.g. paint
  • the cathode structure is configured as an aluminum wettable components that is attached to a non-aluminum wettable (e.g. conductive material/support member configured from carbon) attached to the cathode block along the floor of the cell.
  • a non-aluminum wettable e.g. conductive material/support member configured from carbon
  • the aluminum wettable coating cathode member (e.g. paint) covering the carbonaceous material includes: coatings that are dipped, sprayed, painted, rolled, or otherwise applied to the surface of the non-aluminum wettable components).
  • the cathode member comprises a plurality of tiles (e.g. aluminum wettable ceramic tiles) that are adhered into place over a carbon block with a grout or adhesive (e.g. wherein the grout or adhesive comprises an aluminum wettable ceramic material) such that the grout and tiles cooperate in the cathode wall angle as a metal drained cathode surface.
  • tiles e.g. aluminum wettable ceramic tiles
  • a grout or adhesive e.g. wherein the grout or adhesive comprises an aluminum wettable ceramic material
  • the cathode members comprise a plurality of tiles (e.g. aluminum wettable ceramic tiles) that are adhered into place over a carbon block with a grout or adhesive (e.g. wherein the grout or adhesive has an aluminum wettable ceramic coating or paint applied to the surface thereof) such that the grout and tiles cooperate in the cathode wall angle as a metal drained cathode surface.
  • tiles e.g. aluminum wettable ceramic tiles
  • a grout or adhesive e.g. wherein the grout or adhesive has an aluminum wettable ceramic coating or paint applied to the surface thereof
  • the cathode members comprise a plurality of tiles (e.g. aluminum wettable ceramic tiles) that are adhered into place over a carbon block with a grout or adhesive; wherein (1) the grout or adhesive comprises an aluminum wettable ceramic material and (2) the grout or adhesive has an aluminum wettable ceramic coating or paint applied to the surface thereof, such that the grout and tiles cooperate in the cathode wall angle as a metal drained cathode surface.
  • tiles e.g. aluminum wettable ceramic tiles
  • the cathode member is configured with a cathode drain angle along the lower end of the cathode (e.g. optionally, in combination with a cathode block that the cathode member(s) is/are configured/attached to), such that the metal product that is drained via the cathode wall angle is further directed by the cathode drain angle into a collection area (e.g. sump) positioned along/adjacent to a cathode area in the cell (e.g. sump is configured/located along side aisle, end aisle, or between cathode members).
  • a collection area e.g. sump
  • the cathode drain angle is from 0.1 degree to 15 degrees.
  • the cathode drain angle is from 1 degree to 5 degrees.
  • an apparatus comprising: a cathode member electrically configured in an electrolysis cell to electrolytically participate in metal production, wherein the metal is formed on a surface of the cathode member, wherein the cathode member is configured to fit along a floor of an aluminum electrolysis cell, further wherein the cathode member is configured with a cathode wall angle having an angled or sloped configuration when compared to a generally horizontal plane (i.e.
  • the cathode member is configured to drain a metal product from the surface thereof towards the lower end of the cathode member; and the cathode member is further configured with a cathode drain angle along the lower end of the cathode (e.g. optionally, in combination with a cathode block that the cathode member(s) is/are configured/attached to), such that the metal product that is drained via the cathode wall angle is further directed by the cathode drain angle into a collection area (e.g. sump) positioned along/adjacent to a cathode area in the cell (e.g. sump is configured/located along side aisle, end aisle, or between cathode members).
  • a collection area e.g. sump
  • the collection area (e.g. sump) is located along an inner region of the cathode assembly (e.g. remote from the cell sidewall or end wall).
  • the collection area (e.g. sump) is located along a side wall.
  • the collection area (e.g. sump) is located along both cell sidewalls (e.g. generally opposed from one another).
  • the collection area (e.g. sump) is located along an end wall. [0180] In some embodiments, the collection area (e.g. sump) is located along both end walls (e.g. generally opposed from one another).
  • the collection area (e.g. sump) is located along a side wall and an end wall.
  • the collection area (e.g. sump) is located along both cell sidewalls and end walls (e.g. generally perimetrically configured around the inner perimeter of the cell).
  • the cathode assembly is configured with a generally horizontal portion (e.g. shelf) between the cathode member having cathode wall angle and the collection portion (e.g. sump).
  • a generally horizontal portion e.g. shelf
  • the collection portion e.g. sump
  • the cathode member adjacent to the sump is configured with an extended cathode wall angle such that the metal drains from the cathode member directly into the sump (e.g. no shelf positioned between the member and the collection portion/sump).
  • the cell is tapped continuously (e.g. to remove metal product form the cell).
  • the cell is tapped periodically (to remove metal product from the cell on a recurring, non-continuous frequency).
  • an aluminum electrolysis cell comprising: a cathode assembly configured from a plurality of cathode members having a cathode wall angle sufficient to promote drainage of a metal product towards the lower end of the cathode assembly; an anode assembly, configured from a plurality of anodes, wherein each anode is a monolithic block of carbon having an anode profile configured to correspond to the cathode wall angle of the cathode assembly; where in the cathode members of the cathode assembly and the anodes of the anode assembly are configured in a vertical orientation (e.g. with interspaced anode-cathode-anode-cathode configuration).
  • the anode-to-cathode distance is optimized during electrolytic production of a metal product (e.g. aluminum).
  • a metal product e.g. aluminum
  • the anode profile is configured with bevel ed/angled edges (e.g. sharp edges).
  • the anode profile is configured with arcuate edges (rounded edge). [0191] In some embodiments, the anode profile is configured via: machining the anode to configure the anode with a plurality of sloped/beveled edges along its sidewall that correspond to the cathode assembly profile/dimension (e.g. wall angle of cathode members).
  • the anode profile is configured via: manufacturing the anode with the anode profile (e.g. mixing pitch and coke; directing the mixture into a mold configured with a green anode profile; vibrating the mixture in the mold to ensure appropriate packing and distribution in the mold; and baking a green anode having a green anode profile, to provide an anode having an anode profile; and pinning the anode with a pin configured to direct an electrical current from the pin into the anode).
  • manufacturing the anode with the anode profile e.g. mixing pitch and coke
  • directing the mixture into a mold configured with a green anode profile vibrating the mixture in the mold to ensure appropriate packing and distribution in the mold
  • baking a green anode having a green anode profile to provide an anode having an anode profile
  • pinning the anode with a pin configured to direct an electrical current from the pin into the anode
  • each anode is further configured with at least one anode slot (e.g. a plurality of parallel anode slots) configured along a lower end of the anode (e.g. generally opposite of the generally horizontal portions of the cathode assembly), which are configured to direct bubbles and/or trapped gasses away from the lower end of the anode and into the molten electrolyte bath.
  • at least one anode slot e.g. a plurality of parallel anode slots
  • a lower end of the anode e.g. generally opposite of the generally horizontal portions of the cathode assembly
  • an aluminum electrolysis cell comprising: a cathode assembly, having a plurality of cathode members configured with a cathode wall angle (e.g. to direct the molten metal product towards a lower end of the cathode wall, generally adjacent to the bottom/floor of the cell) , wherein the cathode assembly is further configured with a cathode drain angle (e.g. to direct the molten metal product into a collection area/sump); an anode assembly configured from a plurality of carbon anodes having an anode profile corresponding to the cathode wall angle and cathode drain angle to promote a generally uniform anode-to-cathode distance (e.g.
  • cathode members of the cathode assembly and the anodes of the anode assembly are configured in a vertical orientation (e.g. with interspaced anode-cathode-anode-cathode configuration).
  • a method comprising: removing an anode assembly from a conventional non-ferrous metal electrolytic smelting cell; mechanically attaching a cathode assembly to the cell bottom (e.g. cathode block), wherein the cathode assembly is configured with a plurality of cathode members constructed of an aluminum wettable material, wherein each cathode member is configured a cathode wall angle to promote a metal product to drain from an upper or middle portion of the cathode member to a lower portion of the cathode member; and inserting an anode assembly comprising a plurality of anodes, wherein the anodes are configured with a beveled edge corresponding generally to the cathode wall angle, such that the anode-to-cathode distance is constant (e.g. within a predetermined range) whether measured between the corresponding generally horizontal portions of the cathode assembly and anodes or when measured between the cathode members having
  • the method comprises heating a molten salt bath configured in the cell.
  • the method comprises, feeding a feedstock material into the cell, wherein the feedstock contains a metal compound (e.g. alumina) of the desired metal product (e.g. aluminum metal).
  • a metal compound e.g. alumina
  • the desired metal product e.g. aluminum metal
  • the method comprises electrolytically producing metal in the cell (e.g. to transform the metal compound containing feedstock material into a metal product via electrolysis).
  • one or more of the aforementioned cathode assemblies are retrofitted into a pre-bake cell (e.g. configured to electrolytically make aluminum metal).
  • one or more of the aforementioned cathode assemblies are retrofitted into a Solderberg cell (e.g. configured to electrolytically make aluminum metal).
  • the cathode configuration in is in a 3D structure that enables aluminum to be made at an expanded surface (e.g. increased surface areas compared to as in a monolithic cathodic block configured along the cell bottom).
  • the 3D cathode configuration enables a corresponding anodic configuration (e.g. monolithic carbon anodic with complementary dimensions and configuration to promote a consistent anode-to-cathode distance as compared to conventional smelting cells, and thus, enables reduced anode-to-cathode distances and corresponding reduction of anode-to-cathode distance and ohmic voltage drop.
  • a corresponding anodic configuration e.g. monolithic carbon anodic with complementary dimensions and configuration to promote a consistent anode-to-cathode distance as compared to conventional smelting cells, and thus, enables reduced anode-to-cathode distances and corresponding reduction of anode-to-cathode distance and ohmic voltage drop.
  • the electrode surface area (e.g. anode-to-cathode working area) is increased as compared to 2D traditional smelting cells.
  • reaction surfaces of the anodes and cathodes is increased.
  • the anode the cathode distance is reduced as compared to 2D traditional smelting cells.
  • the aluminum productivity per footprint of the cell is increased with the disclosed 3D cell configurations.
  • the energy consumption is reduced by unit of aluminum production with low anode to cathode distance (ACD).
  • ACD anode to cathode distance
  • the 3D cells of the present disclosure have an increased cell life as compared to 2D cells.
  • the 3D configurations are retrofittable onto existing electrolysis cells (e.g. to configure the retrofitted cell with increased productivity, reduced energy consumption, reduced equivalent C02 emission while avoiding a large capital investment e.g. as compared to a 2D cell or greenfield construction of a 2D pot line).
  • the present disclosure is directed towards utilizing novel cathode structures (e.g. aluminum drainable cathodes) in an electrolysis cell to enable molten aluminum production on the surface of the cathode structures with combined draining of the molten aluminum (e.g. through Al wettable cathodic surfaces and combined gravitational forces) to drain to a collection area (e.g. sump) for collection (e.g. periodic or continuous tapping).
  • novel cathode structures e.g. aluminum drainable cathodes
  • a collection area e.g. sump
  • the cathode structures are configured from or with aluminum wettable material to enable molten metal production on the surface of the cathode structure, thereby (1) increasing the effective surface area to increase metal production in an electrolytic cell and/or (2) reducing the anode cathode distance to reduce energy consumption in the electrolytic cell, as compared with conventional electrolytic cells producing the same metal, without such cathode structures.
  • the present disclosure is directed toward retrofitting existing smelters with the novel cathode structures described herein.
  • the cathode structures are configured to reduced anode effect (e.g. reduce formation of greenhouse gases, such as carbon tetrafluoride) and increase the electrolysis cell life.
  • the electrolysis cell (10) comprises a pot shell (90), a refractory material (92), a sump (78) and a metal extraction area (86).
  • the shell (90) comprises ends (82) and sides (80), thereby defining an outer perimeter of the electrolysis cell (10).
  • the refractory material (92) is located proximal the shell (90), along the perimeter and the bottom of the electrolysis cell (10).
  • the electrolysis cell (10) further comprises a plurality of cathode members (14) disposed on a cathode floor (48) of the electrolysis cell.
  • a single cathode structure (16) is used and the sump (78) is O-shaped.
  • the sump (78) is generally sloped toward the metal extraction area (86), as indicated by the illustrated arrows.
  • the electrolysis cell (10) is periodically tapped via the metal extraction area (86), and molten metal is removed.
  • a larger sump (78) volume allows for less frequent tapping of the electrolysis cell (10).
  • FIGS. 15D and 15E other embodiments of an aluminum electrolysis cell (10) are shown.
  • the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 15D and 15E generally include the same pot shell (90), refractory material (92), sides (80) and ends (82) as the embodiments shown in FIGS. 15A-15C.
  • a single cathode structure is used (16A and 16B), and the sumps (78) are U-shaped.
  • the sump (78) is located along both sides (80) and one end (82) of the electrolysis cell to form a U-shape, and slopes toward the metal extraction area (86), which metal extraction area (86) is proximal a side (80) of the electrolysis cell (10) and near a midpoint between the two ends (82).
  • the sump (78) is proximal both ends (82) and one side (80) of the cell to form a U-shape, and slopes toward the metal extraction area (86), which metal extraction area (86) is proximal a corner of the electrolysis cell (10).
  • FIGS. 15F and 15G other embodiments of an aluminum electrolysis cell (10) are shown.
  • the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 15F and 15G generally include the same pot shell (90), refractory material (92), sides (80) and ends (82) as the embodiments shown in FIGS. 15A-15C.
  • a plurality of cathode structures (16C, 16D, 16E, and 16F) are used, and the sumps (78) are T-shaped.
  • the sump (78) is proximal one end (82) of the electrolysis cell (10), and between the two cathode structures (16C and 16D), and slopes toward the metal extraction area (86).
  • the metal extraction area (86) is proximal an end (82) of the electrolysis cell (10) and near a midpoint between the two sides (80).
  • the sump (78) is proximal one side of the electrolysis cell (10), and between the two cathode structures (16E and 16F), and sloped toward the metal extraction area (86).
  • the metal extraction area (86) is proximal a side (80) of the electrolysis cell (10) at a midpoint between the two ends (82). [0215] In the electrolysis cell (10) of FIG.
  • a plurality of cathode structures (16G and 16H) are used, and the sump (78) comprises a plurality of interconnected longitudinal and latitudinal channels, which are sloped toward the metal extraction area (86).
  • the metal extraction area (86) is proximal a comer of the electrolysis cell (10).
  • the metal extraction area (86) is proximal a corner of the aluminum electrolysis cell (10) or proximal a side (80) or an end (92) of the aluminum electrolysis cell (10).
  • metal extraction area(s) (86) may be in any suitable location of the sump (78).
  • the aluminum electrolysis cell (10) has a single metal extraction area (86).
  • the aluminum electrolysis cell (10) may comprise more than one metal extraction area (86) for tapping the cell (10) in multiple locations.
  • the sump has a single grade sloping toward a single metal extraction area (86).
  • the aluminum electrolysis cell (10) may have sumps (78) with multiple grades (e.g., when more than one metal extraction area (86) is used).
  • the aluminum electrolysis cell (10) may have a first grade sloping toward a first metal extraction area (86) and a second grade sloping toward a second metal extraction area (86).
  • the sumps (78) are shown with several possible arrangements in the electrolysis cell (10).
  • the sump (78) may be arranged in the electrolysis cell (10) in any suitable manner, so long as molten metal flows toward a metal extraction area (86).
  • FIG. 16 A a cross sectional side view of another embodiment of an aluminum electrolysis cell (10) is shown.
  • the electrolysis cell (10) comprises a pot shell (90), a refractory material (92), cell sidewalls (52) and three sump channels (78 A, 78B and 78C, which sump channels are fluidly interconnected to other channels (not shown) to define the sump (78), (e.g., as shown in FIG. 15H).
  • the electrolysis cell (10) also comprises a cathode assembly (12) having two top portions (22A and 22B) corresponding to the cathode structures (16G and 16H) of FIG. 15H.
  • the sump channels (78 A, 78B and 78C) have rectangular cross sections.
  • the triangles illustrated above the top portions (22A and 22B) indicate the top portions (22A and 22B) are sloped, and with the slope being towards the tip of the triangle.
  • top portions (22A and 22B) are sloped toward sump channel (78B).
  • top portions (22A and 22B) may have a slope of not greater than 30° from horizontal.
  • sump channels (78 A and 78C) have trapezoidal cross sections
  • sump channel (78B) has a rectangular cross section
  • top portion (22A) is sloped toward sump (78 A)
  • top portion (22B) is sloped toward sump (78C).
  • FIG. 16C a cross sectional side view of another embodiment of an aluminum electrolysis cell (10) is shown.
  • the illustrated embodiment is similar to the arrangement of FIG. 16A, except all sump channels (78 A, 78B and 78C) have trapezoidal cross sections, and top portions (22A and 22B) are sloped toward sump channel (78B).
  • FIG. 16D a cross sectional side view of another embodiment of an aluminum electrolysis cell (10) is shown.
  • the illustrated embodiment is similar to the arrangement of FIG. 16A, except sump channels (78 A and 78C) have trapezoidal cross sections, sump channel (78B) has a triangular cross section, top portion (22A) is sloped toward sump (78 A) and top portion (22B) is sloped toward sump (78C).
  • slopes of top portions (22) facilitate the movement of molten metal towards a sump (78).
  • top portions (22A and 22B) are illustrated as sloping towards one or more sump channels (78B).
  • a top portion (22) may be sloped toward any adjacent sump (78).
  • top portions (22A and 22B) have slopes of not greater than 30° from horizontal.
  • a top portion may have any suitable slope.
  • a slope of a top portion may be not greater than 15° from horizontal.
  • a slope of a top portion may be not greater than 10° from horizontal.
  • a slope of a top portion may be or not greater than 5° from horizontal.
  • a slope of a top portion may be at least G from horizontal. In some embodiments, a top portion may be sloped, and another top portion may be horizontal. In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 16A-16D, rectangular, trapezoidal and triangular sump (78) cross sections are shown. However, a sump (78) may have any geometrical shape suitable for directing flow of molten metal towards a metal extraction area (86). In one embodiment, a bottom of a sump (78) is planar and horizontal. In another embodiment, a bottom of a sump (78) is planar and sloped. In one embodiment, a bottom of a sump is curved.
  • FIGS. 16B and 17 A other embodiments of an aluminum electrolysis cell (10) are shown.
  • the illustrated embodiments are similar to the arrangement of FIG. 15H.
  • FIGS. 16B and 17A generally include the same cathode assembly (12) and sump channel (78B) as FIG. 15H.
  • plate members (94A and 94B) are partially disposed on top portions (22A and 22B).
  • the sump (78) has a sump bottom (77B) and two sump sidewalls (79A and 79B).
  • Plate member (94B) has a first end (95) that extends beyond sump sidewall (79B), thereby defining an overhang portion adjacent sump sidewall (79B).
  • the first end (95) of plate member (94B) and sump sidewall (78 A) define a gap (81B).
  • the triangles illustrated above the plate members (94A and 94B) indicate a direction of a slope of such plate members (94A and 94B).
  • the slope of the plate members (94A and 94B) is the same as the slope of the top portions (22A and 22B).
  • molten metal produced at cathode surfaces drains from such cathode surfaces to the sump (78), and, ultimately, to a metal extraction area (86).
  • metal drains from a plate member (94) through a gap (81) to the sump (78).
  • the plate member (94) provides additional cathode surface area for producing molten metal without reducing sump (78) volume.
  • Such plate members (94) may, therefore, increase current efficiency in the electrochemical cell (10).
  • FIGS. 16C and 17B other embodiments of an aluminum electrolysis cell (10) are shown.
  • the illustrated embodiments are similar to the arrangement of FIG. 15H.
  • FIGS. 16C and 17B generally include the same cathode assembly (12) and sump channel (78B) as FIG. 15H.
  • FIGS. 16C and 17B generally include the same top portions (22A and 22B), plate members (94A and 94B), and sump bottom (77B) as FIGS. 16B and 17A.
  • sump sidewall (79 A) has a wall angle (QA) relative to vertical
  • sump sidewall (79B) has a wall angle (QB) relative to vertical.
  • Wall angle (QA) is not greater than 60° relative to vertical, and wall angle (QB) is not greater than 60° relative to vertical.
  • a sump wall angle may provide additional sump (78B) volume as compared to a sump with a vertical wall, which may allow for less frequent tapping of the electrochemical cell (10).
  • FIG. 17C another embodiment of an aluminum electrolysis cell (10) is shown.
  • the illustrated embodiment is similar to the arrangement of FIGS. 15H and 16B.
  • a cathode assembly (12) has a top portion (22B), a plate member (94B) partially disposed on the top portion (22B) and two sumps (78B and 78C).
  • Sump (78B) has a sump bottom (77B) sump sidewalls (79A and 79B).
  • Sump (78C) has a sump bottom (77C) and two sump sidewalls (79C and 79D).
  • Sump sidewall (79D) is adjacent refractory material (92).
  • the plate member (94B) has a first end (95) that extends beyond sump sidewall (79B), defining an overhang portion adjacent sump sidewall (79B).
  • the first end (95) of plate member (94B) and sump sidewall (79 A) define a first gap (81B).
  • the plate member has a second end (97) that extends beyond sump sidewall (79C), defining an overhang portion adjacent sump sidewall (79C).
  • the second end (97) of plate member (94B) and sump sidewall (79D) define a second gap (81C).
  • the plate member (94) may provide additional cathode surface area for producing molten metal without reducing sump (78) volume.
  • plate members (94A and 94B) have the same slope as top portions (22A and 22B). However, plate members (94A and 94B) may have different slopes than top portions (22A and 22B). In the embodiments shown in FIGS 16B-16D and 17A-17C, top portions (94A and 94B) have the same slope. However, top portion (94A) may have a different slope than top portion (94B). In one embodiment, top portion (94 A) may be sloped and top portion (94B) may be horizontal. In the embodiment shown in FIG.
  • wall angle (QA) is not greater than 60° relative to vertical, and the wall angle (QB) is not greater than 60° relative to vertical.
  • any suitable wall angle (QA) may be used.
  • wall angle (QA) may be not greater than 45° relative to vertical.
  • wall angle (QA) may be not greater than 30° relative to vertical.
  • wall angle (QA) may be not greater than 15° relative to vertical.
  • wall angle (QA) may be not greater than 10° relative to vertical.
  • wall angle (QA) may be not greater than 5° relative to vertical.
  • wall angle (QB) may be not greater than 45° relative to vertical.
  • wall angle (QB) may be not greater than 30° relative to vertical. In yet another embodiment, wall angle (QB) may be not greater than 15° relative to vertical. In another embodiment, wall angle (QB) may be not greater than 10° relative to vertical. In yet another embodiment, wall angle (QB) may be not greater than 5° relative to vertical. In the illustrated embodiments, wall angle (QA) is the same as wall angle (QB). However, wall angle (QA) may be different than wall angle (QB).
  • FIG. 18A another embodiment of a cathode assembly (12) is shown.
  • a cathode block (36) is disposed below and at least partially in contact with a plurality of cathode plates (34).
  • the cathode floor (48) is defined by cathode floor plates (49), and the cathode floor plates (49) are at least partially in contact with the cathode block (36).
  • a sump (78) is adjacent the cathode floor (48).
  • cathode floor plates (49) are mechanically interlocked via a slot (37) and tab (35) configuration.
  • the cathode plates (34) comprise apertures (98A-98E) that correspond to cavities in the underlying cathode block (36) (not illustrated).
  • Aperture (98A) is in a vertical cathode plate (34)
  • apertures (98B and 98C) are in horizontal cathode plates (34)
  • apertures (98D and 98E) are in sloped cathode plates (34).
  • one or more mechanical fasteners may be used to attach a cathode plate (34) to an underlying cathode block (36) via apertures (98) of the cathode plate (34) and cavities (126) of the cathode block (36).
  • FIGS. 18A-18C another embodiment of a cathode assembly (12) is shown.
  • the cathode block (36) has a cavity (102).
  • a cathode floor plate (49) has a slot (103) over the cavity (102).
  • a tab (35) on a cathode plate (34) fits through the slot (103) and is retained in the cavity (102), thereby securing the cathode plate
  • cathode floor plates (49) are mechanically interlocked to vertical cathode plates (34) (e.g. cathode sidewall plates) via a slot (37) and tab
  • cathode floor plates (49) have a slot (37) and vertical cathode plates (34) have a tab (35).
  • sloped cathode plates (34) are interlocked to cathode floor plates via a slot (37) and tab (35) configuration.
  • a sloped cathode plate (34) has a slot (37) and a cathode floor plate (49) has a tab (35).
  • cathode plate (49A) comprises a slot (37).
  • the slot (37) has a first slot edge (137A), a second slot edge (137B) and a third slot edge (137C).
  • Cathode plate (49B) comprises a tab (35).
  • the tab (35) has a first tab edge (135A), a second tab edge (135B), and a third tab edge (135C). The first, second and third edges of the slot marry with the first, second and third edges of the tab, respectively, to mechanically interlock cathode floor plate (49A) with cathode floor plate (49B).
  • cathode floor plates (49 A and 49B) is shown.
  • a cross section of cathode plates (49A and 49B) is shown.
  • Cathode plate (49A) has a cross section edge (149A) that has a concave curvature.
  • Cathode plate (49B) has a cross section edge (149B) that has a convex curvature.
  • Cross section edge (149A) is complimentary with cross section edge (149B) to mechanically interlock cathode floor plate (49A) with cathode floor plate (49B).
  • cathode floor plates (49A and 49B) is shown.
  • a cross section of cathode plates (49A and 49B) is shown.
  • Cathode plate (49A) has a cross section edge (149C) that is linear and sloped relative to vertical.
  • Cathode plate (49B) has a cross section edge (149D) that is linear and sloped relative to vertical.
  • the slope of cross section edge (149A) is complimentary with cross section edge (149B) such that cathode floor plate (49A) mechanically interlocks with cathode floor plate (49B).
  • the cavity (102) in the cathode block (36) is hollow around the cathode plate tab (35).
  • the cavity (102) may be filled with a material such as adhesive or cathode block material (e.g, graphite).
  • the cavity (102) in the cathode block (36) is rectangular in shape.
  • the cavity (102) may be any suitable shape, provided the cathode plate tab (35) fits in the cavity (102).
  • a cathode plate (34) or cathode floor plate (40) has one tab (35) or one slot (37).
  • a cathode plate (34) or cathode floor plate (49) may have any suitable number of slots (37) or tabs (35) configured for mechanical interlocking.
  • the tabs (35) and slots (37) have a trapezoidal shape.
  • a tab (35) may have any suitable shape provided a slot (37) has a complimentary shape such that the tab (35) and slot (37) are configured to mechanically interlock cathode plates.
  • a mechanical fastener may be a pin (120).
  • the pin (120) is a cylinder, and has a pin top (122) and a pin bottom (124).
  • cathode plates (34) have apertures (98A-98E) with a diameter larger than the diameter of a pin (120).
  • the cathode block (36) has cavities corresponding to the cathode plate apertures (98A-98E) (cavities not illustrated in FIG. 18 A).
  • a pin (120) is positioned in a cavity (126) in the cathode block (36), and through an aperture (98) in the cathode plate (34) such that the pin bottom (124) is at least partially in contact with the cathode block (36), and the pin (120) is at least partially in contact with the cathode plate.
  • the pins (120) are cylindrical in shape and have a smooth surface.
  • a pin (120) may be any suitable shape, provided it is adapted to interface with an aperture (98) in the cathode plate (34) and in to a cavity (126) in the cathode block (36), and secure the two together.
  • a pin (120) may be a screw with threading.
  • a pin (120) may be a nail.
  • a pin (120) may be a rivet.
  • a pin (120) may be made of a material that expands when heated such that during operation, the pin (120) expands to secure the cathode plate (34) to the cathode block (36).
  • a cathode plate (34) has only one aperture (98) to accommodate a pin (120).
  • a cathode plate (34) may have any suitable number of apertures (98) for pins (120).
  • cathode floor plates do not have apertures (98).
  • cathode floor plates (49) may have apertures for securing cathode floor plates (49) to the cathode block (36).
  • the slot (37) and tab (35) configuration mechanically interlocks cathode plates (34), and pins (98) secure the cathode plates (34) and floor plates (49) to the cathode block.
  • the term“or” is an inclusive operator, and is equivalent to the term “and/or,” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
  • the term“based on” is not exclusive and allows for being based on additional factors not described, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
  • the meaning of“a,”“an,” and “the” include plural references.
  • the meaning of“in” includes“in” and“on.”
  • Figure 2A depicts the projected performance of a specific Soderberg smelter vs. 4 embodiments of the present disclosure (option 1-3- retrofitting) and option 4 Greenfield.
  • Figure 2A (upper graph) depicts the reduction of energy consumption (improved energy use) of the embodiments of the present disclosure when compared to the conventional Soderberg smelter for each retrofit option and the Greenfield option. With all four embodiments, there is a projected improvement in energy consumption (lower energy consumption) when compared to the existing the traditional Soderberg smelter.
  • Figure 2A depicts the production capacity (amount of aluminum metal produced per year) of the embodiments of the present disclosure when compared to the conventional Soderberg smelter for each retrofit option and the Greenfield option. With all four embodiments, there is a projected increase production capacity (more aluminum produced) when compared to the existing the traditional Soderberg smelter.
  • Figure 2B provides a comparative example of a specific Pre-bake cell smelter vs. retrofitting and Greenfield of the Pre-bake cell (pre-bake anode) technology with sloped anode and cathode configurations described herein.
  • Figure 2B depicts the projected performance of a specific Pre-bake smelter vs. 4 embodiments of the present disclosure (option 1-3- retrofitting) and option 4 Greenfield.
  • Figure 2B (upper graph) depicts the reduction of energy consumption (improved energy use) of the embodiments of the present disclosure when compared to the conventional Pre-bake cell smelter for each retrofit option and the Greenfield option. With all four embodiments, there is a projected improvement in energy consumption (lower energy consumption) when compared to the existing the traditional Pre-bake smelter.
  • Figure 2B depicts the production capacity (amount of aluminum metal produced per year) of the embodiments of the present disclosure when compared to the conventional Pre-bake cell smelter for each retrofit option and the Greenfield option. With all four embodiments, there is a projected increase production capacity (more aluminum produced) when compared to the existing the traditional Pre-bake cell smelter.
  • Anode pin/rod electrical connection (e.g. structural support) 58
  • Middle (e.g. interspaced between anode assemblies and cathode assemblies) 84

Landscapes

  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Electrochemistry (AREA)
  • Materials Engineering (AREA)
  • Metallurgy (AREA)
  • Organic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Electrolytic Production Of Metals (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne une cellule d'électrolyse d'aluminium comprenant un bloc de cathode positionné au-dessous d'une pluralité d'anodes, le bloc de cathode comprenant un collecteur au moins partiellement disposé à l'intérieur du bloc de cathode, le collecteur étant au moins partiellement défini par une première paroi latérale de collecteur, une seconde paroi latérale de collecteur et un fond de collecteur, au moins l'une des première et seconde parois latérales de collecteur étant inclinée par rapport à la verticale.
PCT/US2019/054138 2018-10-03 2019-10-01 Systèmes et procédés de production électrolytique d'aluminium Ceased WO2020072541A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201862740842P 2018-10-03 2018-10-03
US62/740,842 2018-10-03

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2020072541A1 true WO2020072541A1 (fr) 2020-04-09

Family

ID=70055661

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2019/054138 Ceased WO2020072541A1 (fr) 2018-10-03 2019-10-01 Systèmes et procédés de production électrolytique d'aluminium

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2020072541A1 (fr)

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4410412A (en) * 1980-11-26 1983-10-18 Swiss Aluminium Ltd. Cathode for an electrolytic cell for producing aluminum via the fused salt electrolytic process
US5362366A (en) * 1992-04-27 1994-11-08 Moltech Invent S.A. Anode-cathode arrangement for aluminum production cells
US6358393B1 (en) * 1997-05-23 2002-03-19 Moltech Invent S.A. Aluminum production cell and cathode
CN101942676A (zh) * 2010-09-30 2011-01-12 湖南晟通科技集团有限公司 一种异型阴极结构铝电解槽
CN201793764U (zh) * 2010-09-30 2011-04-13 湖南创元铝业有限公司 一种铝电解槽阴极结构

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4410412A (en) * 1980-11-26 1983-10-18 Swiss Aluminium Ltd. Cathode for an electrolytic cell for producing aluminum via the fused salt electrolytic process
US5362366A (en) * 1992-04-27 1994-11-08 Moltech Invent S.A. Anode-cathode arrangement for aluminum production cells
US6358393B1 (en) * 1997-05-23 2002-03-19 Moltech Invent S.A. Aluminum production cell and cathode
CN101942676A (zh) * 2010-09-30 2011-01-12 湖南晟通科技集团有限公司 一种异型阴极结构铝电解槽
CN201793764U (zh) * 2010-09-30 2011-04-13 湖南创元铝业有限公司 一种铝电解槽阴极结构

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP1146146B1 (fr) Cathode drainée pour la production électrolytique d'aluminium présentant des rainures en tranchée sur sa surface horizontale
EP0027016B1 (fr) Appareillage pour la production électrolytique de magnésium métallique à partir de son chlorure
US4392925A (en) Electrode arrangement in a cell for manufacture of aluminum from molten salts
EP0550456B1 (fr) Cellules de fusion d'aluminium ameliorees
CA2757336C (fr) Plancher formant cathode, procede de production d'un plancher formant cathode, et utilisation dudit plancher dans une cellule d'electrolyse pour la production d'aluminium
AU746427B2 (en) Drained cathode aluminium electrowinning cell with improved alumina distribution
US11078584B2 (en) Systems and methods of electrolytic production of aluminum
EP0777765B1 (fr) Ensemble immerge dans un bain d'aluminium pour cellules de production d'aluminium
DE3064396D1 (en) Alumina reduction cell, methods of producing such a cell, and use thereof in the manufacture of aluminium
WO2020072541A1 (fr) Systèmes et procédés de production électrolytique d'aluminium
WO2021240353A1 (fr) Ensemble cathode avec systèmes de barres collectrices métalliques pour cellule d'électrolyse se prêtant au procédé hall-héroult
EP1185724B1 (fr) Cellules d'extraction electrolytique de l'aluminium pourvues d'un fond cathodique en forme de v
US3676323A (en) Fused salt electrolyzer for magnesium production
DE60021411T2 (de) Aluminium-elektrogewinnungszelle mit gegen den geschmolzenen elektrolyt beständigen seitenwänden
JPH0111722Y2 (fr)
AU639368B2 (en) Improved aluminium smelting cell
JPS6017037B2 (ja) 溶融塩電解用中間電極体及びこれを用いた塩化マグネシウム電解装置
AU6551901A (en) Horizontal drained cathode surface with recessed grooves for aluminium electrowinning

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 19869854

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 19869854

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1