Abstract
The concept of the vertical electrode cell (VEC) for aluminum electrowinning is presented with reference to current research. Low-temperature electrolysis allows nonconsumable metal-alloy anodes to show ongoing promise in laboratory tests. The economic and environmental advantages of the VEC are surveyed. The unique challenges of bringing VEC technology into practice are discussed. The current status of laboratory research is summarized. New results presented show that commercial purity aluminum can be produced with promisingly high current efficiency.
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For more information, contact Craig Brown, Northwest Aluminum Technologies, 1080 West Ewing Place, Suite 202, Seattle, WA 98119; cbrown@nwat.net.
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Brown, C. Next generation vertical electrode cells. JOM 53, 39–42 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11837-001-0208-3
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11837-001-0208-3