METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR INCREASING ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND IMPROVING MEMBRANE ROBUSTNESS IN PRIMARY METAL PRODUCTION

摘要

The invention relates to apparatuses and methods for increasing energy efficiency and improving membrane robustness in primary metal production. In some aspects, the methods and apparatuses comprise interrupting a first current flow from the cathode to the anode and permitting a second current flow from the anode to the cathode. In some aspects, the methods and apparatuses comprise a solid oxygen ion-conducting membrane disposed in ion-conducting contact with the molten electrolyte, wherein the membrane has an electronic resistance less than about 200 ohms/cm2

主权项

1. A method for reducing a metal oxide comprising:
(a) providing a cathode in ion-conducting contact with a molten electrolyte, the molten electrolyte containing a metal oxide; (b) providing an anode in ionic communication with the molten electrolyte; (c) providing a power supply disposed between the cathode and the anode; (d) using the power supply to cause a first current flow from the cathode to the anode, thereby reducing at least a portion of the metal oxide; and (e) from time to time, interrupting the first current flow and electrically coupling the anode and the cathode, thereby permitting a second current flow from the anode to the cathode and thereby oxidizing at least a portion the metal in the molten electrolyte.