| 摘要 |
An improved method of producing aluminum in an electrolytic cell comprising the steps of providing a molten salt electrolyte (45) at a temperature less than 900°C having alumina dissolved therein in an electrolytic cell (2) having a liner (4) for containing the electrolyte (45). The liner (4) is substantially inert with respect to the molten electrolyte (45) and has a bottom (36) and walls extending upwardly from the bottom (36). A plurality of non-consumable anodes (6) and cathodes (10) are disposed in the electrolyte (45) and an electric current is passed through the anodes (6) and through the electrolyte (45) to the cathodes (10) depositing alumium on the cathodes (10) and generating oxygen bubbles at the anodes (6), the bubbles stirring the electrolyte (45). Periodically, the electric current flow to the cell (2) is reduced for extended periods, during which time the electrolyte (45) and aluminum in the cell (2) is maintained in a molten condition by application of heat to the bottom (36) using heating means (80). |
