| 摘要 |
A new method for the electrolytic production of aluminum, using a new electrolyte composition and low temperature operation, is provided. The electrolyte comprises a mixture of aluminum fluoride-potassium fluoride with from about 2 wt. % to 6 wt. % of alumina. The new electrolyte allows for the electrolytical reduction of alumina at temperatures as low as 700°C. The lower temperature allows for the use of inert anodes, and is conducive to the use of wetted cathodes. The new electrolyte mixture has a higher solubility for alumina and remains entirely liquid, even with 5 wt. % of alumina present in the electrolyte during electrolysis. Oxygen (O2) is the only gas generated during alumina electrolysis with the new electrolyte and the inert anodes, thus eliminating the production of greenhouse gases. Anodes and cathodes can be mounted in either a vertical, horizontal, or some other configuration. |
