Alumíniumtermelés

Alumíniumtermelés refers to the industrial process of producing aluminum metal. The primary method used globally is the Hall-Héroult process, an electrochemical reduction technique. This process begins with bauxite ore, which is purified to produce alumina (aluminum oxide, Al₂O₃). Alumina is then dissolved in molten cryolite (Na₃AlF₆) in large electrolytic cells. A strong electric current is passed through this molten mixture, which causes the alumina to break down. Aluminum ions are reduced at the cathode, forming molten aluminum, while oxygen ions react with the carbon anode, producing carbon dioxide. The molten aluminum collects at the bottom of the cell and is periodically tapped off and cast into various forms.

The Hall-Héroult process is highly energy-intensive, requiring significant amounts of electricity. This is why aluminum smelters are often located near sources of inexpensive power, such as hydroelectric dams. The raw materials are primarily bauxite for alumina production and cryolite, which acts as a flux to lower the melting point of alumina. The carbon anodes are consumed during the process and need to be replaced regularly. Environmental considerations include managing greenhouse gas emissions, particularly perfluorocarbons (PFCs) from anode consumption, and the disposal of spent pot lining. Recycling aluminum, which requires significantly less energy than primary production, is also a crucial part of the overall aluminum supply chain.