Green, safe and clean carbon products for the aluminium electrolysis pots

Abstract

Carbon products used in aluminium electrolysis pots are generally based on coal-tar pitch or resin binders. Coal tar pitch is considered by the new European chemicals legislation REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals) as very high concern product, and it is carcinogenic classified. Phenol, a typical component of resin binders used in carbon products, is also carcinogenic classified. In face of these hazards, solutions that guarantee a clean and safe environment for the workers have to be found. Last year a 100% clean ramming paste NeO2 has been introduced, based on a new binder type containing no CMR product (CMR: carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic for reproduction) and no hazardous substance. This paste was fully anthracitic. Since then, Carbone Savoie made developments to complete its Green range with a 100% clean semi-graphitic grade of ramming paste, using the same type of binder and with a 100 % clean glue, which could be used at different locations in the pot. Characteristics of these new products will be presented.