| Abstract Scope |
Decarbonization of ironmaking requires alternatives to carbon based reduction pathways. This work demonstrates an electrochemical approach for the direct reduction of iron oxide ores using molten chloride electrolytes. An electrochemical cell was assembled with Fe₂O₃ pellet cathodes in a LiCl–Li₂O (99–1 wt%) electrolyte, employing a Li–Bi reference electrode and an oxygen evolving anode, and operated at 650 °C. Current–potential measurements show that hematite pellets can be reduced at current densities up to 1 A cm⁻² without lithium metal deposition, indicating a wide electrochemical window. During constant current electrolysis, cathode and anode potentials remained stable. X ray diffraction confirmed complete reduction of the pellets to metallic Fe. Based on mass change from Fe₂O₃ to Fe, the current efficiency exceeded 80%. These results demonstrate highly efficient electrolytic ironmaking and provide insight into iron oxide electroreduction in molten salt systems. |