Patent ID: 6436272
Filing Date: 2002-08-20
Classification: C25C

Abstract:
A method of producing aluminum in an electrolytic cell containing alumina dissolved in an electrolyte, the method comprising the steps of:(a) providing a molten salt electrolyte having alumina dissolved therein in an electrolytic cell having a liner for containing said electrolyte, said liner having a bottom and walls, said liner being substantially inert with respect to said molten electrolyte; (b) providing a plurality of non-consumable anodes disposed substantially vertically in said electrolyte and a plurality of hollow cathodes, each cathode having a top and bottom, said cathodes disposed vertically in said electrolyte, said anodes and said cathodes arranged in alternating relationship; (i) said anodes having a substantially plate-shaped configuration; and (ii) each of said cathodes comprised of a first side facing a first opposing anode and a second side facing a second opposing anode, said first and second sides joined by ends to form a reservoir in said hollow cathode, said cathode having a bottom opening and a top opening into said reservoir; (c) passing an electric current from said anodes, through said electrolyte to said cathodes, depositing aluminum on said cathodes, and generating oxygen bubbles at the anodes, said bubbles stirring said electrolyte; (d) collecting said molten aluminum deposited at said cathodes in said reservoir in the hollow cathodes; and (e) withdrawing a portion of said molten aluminum from said reservoir.