Patent ID: 6558525
Filing Date: 2003-05-06
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 at a temperature of less than 900Â° C. having alumina dissolved therein in an electrolytic cell having a liner for containing the electrolyte, said liner having a bottom and walls extending upwardly from said bottom; (b) providing a plurality of substantially non-consumable anodes and cathodes disposed in a generally vertical direction in said electrolyte, said cathodes having a surface, said anodes having a surface disposed opposite said surface of said cathode defining a region therebetween, said anodes containing apertures through said surface of said anode to permit flow of electrolyte through said apertures to provide alumina-enriched electrolyte to said region between said anodes and said cathodes; and (c) passing electrical current through said anodes and through said electrolyte to said cathodes for purposes of electrolysis, depositing aluminum at said cathodes and producing gas at said anodes.