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