Effect of La on the electrolysis performance of 46Cu-25Ni-19Fe- 10AI metal anode

Abstract

With addition of La element for modification of 46Cu-25Ni-19Fe- 10AI metal anode material, the 200A/815°C electrolytic test showed that the precipitation of La element at the grain boundary hindered the outward migration of metal atoms and the inward diffusion of oxygen atoms. Meanwhile, a compact composite oxide scale (including Cu2O, NiO, CuFe2O 4 and NiFe2O4.) is formed on the surface of the anode during the test. Due to the pinning effect of La elements, the oxide scale was closely combined with the metal matrix and impeded the electrolyte penetration, thereby reducing anodic corrosion rate and dissolution of the oxide scale. This alloy has a potential to be an inert anode in industrial aluminum electrolysis. Copyright © 2014 by The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society.