| Abstract Scope |
RUSAL has pioneered an electrolytic purification process converting recycled aluminum scrap into primary-grade metal (99.8% Al). Utilizing an adapted 3-layer HOOPS technology, the process separates aluminum ions within an electrolytic cell, concentrating high-purity aluminum at the anode. The residue contains concentrated alloying elements (Si, Fe, Cu, Zn) and intermetallics.
Lab tests confirm significant advantages: High efficiency for mixed scrap streams (e.g. Twitch), yielding primary metal and a valuable residue; Reduced energy/impact operating at lower temperatures (~10-11 kWh/kg scrap, CO₂ dependent on energy source); Compelling economics with processing costs of a few hundred USD/tonne, enabling conversion of discounted scrap to primary aluminum fetching full LME prices plus premiums.
This breakthrough opens unique opportunities beyond primary producers. Ideal partners include scrap traders seeking value-add, remelters leveraging infrastructure, and renewable energy companies potentially using the process as a flexible "battery" by storing excess energy via storable aluminum production. |