Aluminum reduction via near room temperature electrolysis in ionic liquids

Abstract

Study on aluminum reduction via electrolysis in ionic liquids at near room temperatures was carried out. Anhydrous aluminum chloride was used as raw material. The electrolyte was made from AlCl3 and 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (C4mimCl). X-ray diffractometer and micro-image analyzer were used for the product characterization. Aluminum was electrowinned at copper cathode and chlorine gas was released at graphite anode. Experimental temperatures were in the range of 100-140°C. Cathode current density was about 200-700 A/m2. Dense aluminum deposition with thickness of 0.1-0.2 mm was obtained. Effects of temperature, cell voltage, and molar ratio of AlCl3 to C4mimCl on the cathode current density and efficiency were also investigated.