Reduction of the operating temperature of aluminum electrolysis: Low temperature electrolyte

Abstract

Potassium Aluminum Fluoride obtained as a byproduct in the aluminum grain refiners and master alloys production may be used as an additive to the aluminum reduction process. The component leads to a considerable reduction in the liquidus temperature, and maintains other important parameters such as electrolyte conductivity and solubility of alumina. Both, laboratory tests and semi industrial trials in a 100A cell have been conducted in order to test the suitability of this new additive to the electrolytic process, with positive results. Potassium Aluminum Fluoride can be also used as a basic component of the low-temperature electrolyte for aluminum electrolysis.