Aluminum electrolytic is a process of electrolysis applied to the production of aluminum. This process involves the alkaline electrolysis of alumina, the hydrated version of aluminum oxide. The process offers the advantage of being relatively inexpensive and permits the electrolysis of alumina dissolved in an inert solvent such as cryolite.
The aluminum electrolytic process starts with the common anode block of carbon. This block is composed of graphite, an electric conductor in which the electric current is able to flow. It is also a non-metallic element, which does not react with molten aluminum. The anode block serves as the electrode for the process, with the carbon block leading to a reaction metals such as aluminum.
The reaction is initiated by heat and electrical current. The current is passed through the anode block and into the alumina (aluminum oxide), which is then converted into its molten form. This molten state separates the aluminum oxide molecules and allows them to be reduced to aluminum metal. It is important to note that aluminum oxide requires more electrical current to reduce than many other metals. This is due to its higher surface area, which requires greater amounts of electrical power.
The molten aluminum must be protected from oxidation by a lining of carbon. The lining must also protect the aluminum from overheating and difficult argon atmosphere. As the aluminum continues to be reduced, it slowly migrates down the construction and the carbon anode block. The negative ions that make up the aluminum oxide remain at the top of the construction, creating a dendrite structure. This process is completed as the aluminum collects and solidifies at the bottom of the block.
Once the electrolytic process is complete, the aluminum can be harvested from the carbon block. The harvested aluminum is extremely pure and is suitable for a variety of applications, including the production of various metals and alloys, as well as for the production of aluminum foil.
Aluminum electrolytic is a cost-effective process for aluminum production and it has the advantage of low energy inputs and low environmental impacts. It presents an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional aluminum production, such as smelting. In addition, the process avoids the collection of hazardous waste streams and reduces the costs associated with the disposal of waste products. Furthermore, the process also enables the production of materials that are not possible through smelting, such as aluminum foil.
