Dimensionally stable electrodes for used salt electrolysis (substitute for petroleum coke)

An electrode system for anodes in aluminum fused salt electrolysis was developed and tested as regards electrochemical efficiency, corrosion resistance, possible design of large-scale anodes, and production costs. The anode, a water-cooled combination electrode, consists of a metal upper section incorporating a cooling system and serving as a current carrier and distributor, with refractory graphite protective elements, and a ceramic active lower section. The electrode system allows savings of raw materials of 0.655 ton of fuel per ton of aluminum produced. Operation of the aluminum electrolysis with inert anodes improves working conditions and environmental quality. The interpolation distance can be reduced with inert cathodes.