Dimensionally stable anode for molten salt electrolysis of RE metals

DSA (bottom region) fabricated via electrodeposition onto graphite 
DSA (bottom region) fabricated via electrodeposition onto graphite 

CMI researchers at Case Western Reserve University conducted the research for this highlight

Innovation
Dimensionally stable anode (DSA) for chlorine evolution in chloride fused salts. 

Achievement
Novel DSA fabricated via electrodeposition of RuO2 coatings onto graphitic substrates that are electrocatalytic to Cl2 evolution in molten salt systems. Retains catalytic effect after long use times. 

Significance and Impact
Catalytic, stable surface with low reagent cost, low energy consumption, and short production time.  Improves economics of electrowinning neodymium from chloride melt, an environmentally-benign production route.

Hub Goal Addressed
Sustainable production of rare earth metals. 

Polarization of graphite anode vs RuO2 DSA for Cl2 evolution reaction in LiCl-KCl eutectic at 475 ºC. DSA operates at lower overpotentials due to enhanced catalytic activity.
Polarization of graphite anode vs RuO2 DSA for Cl2 evolution reaction in LiCl-KCl eutectic at 475 ºC. DSA operates at lower overpotentials due to enhanced catalytic activity.