Characterization of carbon cathode materials by X-ray microtomography

Abstract

The carbon cathode is considered as the main component of the aluminum reduction cell. It provides the electrical contact that is essential for electrolysis as a result of holding molten electrolytic bath together with aluminum. Hence, its performance is crucial in electrolysis process. X-ray microtomography was used to compare different virgin cathode materials, as well as those that had been used in laboratory-scale aluminum reduction cells. Results demonstrated significant differences in terms of bath penetration and metallic inclusions. X-ray microtomography was shown to be a powerful tool for 3-D characterization of cathode materials.