Separation of Aluminum from More Noble Elements in an Electrolysis Cell with Side-by-Side Geometry

Abstract Currently, recycled metal is diluted with primary to keep the concentration of alloying elements within specification. This will be more difficult in future, when a larger proportion made from scrap. Particularly, there need for process that can remove noble than aluminum scrap metal. While electrolytic refining three-layer cell (the Hoopes process) possibility; present paper presents simpler and flexible electrolysis where anode (alloy) cathode (purified metal) are placed side-by-side. The principle was demonstrated laboratory cell. current efficiency above 80 pct specific energy consumption about 7 kWh/kg Al. effect very good, e.g. , copper content 7xxx alloy used reduced 2.1 wt less 20 ppm. An industrial version work suggested. principles design generic other purposes recycling aluminum.