ZERO-DIRECT-CARBON-EMISSION ALUMINUM PRODUCTION BY SOLID OXIDE MEMBRANE-BASED ELECTROLYSIS PROCESS

摘要

A zero-direct-carbon-emission solid oxide membrane (SOM) electrolysis process was designed and developed to produce high purity aluminum metal. An inert anode assembly containing liquid silver in a one-end-closed YSZ (yttria-stabilized zirconia) membrane tube and LSM (La_(0.8)Sr_(0.2)MnO_3-δ)-Inconel inert anode current collector was immersed in an alumina containing molten fluoride flux. A proof-of-concept electrolysis experiment was performed to confirm the aluminum production by depositing liquid aluminum directly on a TiB_2 cathode. An improved setup employing liquid aluminum cathode was subsequently used to produce high purity aluminum using the SOM electrolysis process. The membrane stability was confirmed using scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. High purity aluminum (>99wt%) was produced and collected after the electrolysis.