Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) reduction program at Alcoa Canada, Primary Metals. Alcoa's contribution to GHGs reduction

摘要

The warming up of the planet and its impact on the environment is a major concern of our modern society. It becomes essential that everyone joins the effort to face this challenge by adopting new attitudes. In June 2002 Alcoa Canada, Primary Metals signed a voluntary agreement with the Quebec government to reduce GHGs emissions. Compared to 2001, the agreement calls for a reduction of about 200 000 tons/year to the average emissions for 2002-2003 and 2004. Although all GHGs are covered by the agreement, our first priority is the reduction of PFCs emitted during the anode effects, given the important global warming potential of the perfluorocarbons and our capabilities for improvement. Alcoa Canada, Primary Metals is involved in the operation of three smelters in Quebec: ABI, which is also partly owned by Pechiney, Baie-Comeau and Deschambault. Each smelter faced a different situation in relation to PFCs emissions, having different technologies and operating philosophies. So to share the best practices and ensure Alcoa would meet its commitment with the government, the three smelters formed a group where they can exchange on: · anode effect killing routine · floor operation practices · pots feeding · Prediction of anode effect. This paper will present our results for 2002, the methodology, and how best practices were developed and implemented. We will also discuss our action plan.