ELECTROLYTIC PREPARATION OF ZIRCONIUM AND HAFNIUM DIBORIDES USING A MOLTEN, CRYOLITE-BASE ELECTROLYTE

摘要

Zirconium and hafnium diborides are electrolytically synthesized using a molten salt electrolyte containing a major portion of cryolite and minor portions of a sodium alkali, a sodium borate and a source compound to supply the zirconium or hafnium. The synthesis may be accomplished in a cell open to the atmosphere to produce highly pure zirconium and hafnium diborides uncontaminated with their respective oxides.