The Application of the Refractory Carbides and Borides to Aluminum Reduction Cells

Abstract

This paper describes the long-range work initiated by The British Aluminium Co. (and developed in association with the Kaiser Aluminum & Chemical Corp.) on the application of the carbides and borides of the transition elements to cathode construction in aluminum reduction cells. Titanium and zirconium borides and carbide/ boride mixtures are particularly suitable for this purpose, and the project has required the preparation and fabrication of these materials in the form of massive pieces of a closely controlled quality. It has been found possible to produce these at an acceptable cost. By the use of these materials the cathode voltage drop can be considerably reduced, and various new types of cell structure become feasible. The cell lining, for example, can be made electrically neutral; under these conditions flux absorption is markedly less than in orthodox cells. A further advantage is that magnetic fields can be virtually eliminated. Some results on full production cells presently in operation are reported.