In-Situ Electrochemical Processing of Light-Weight Alloys

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A new process for direct processing of light weight alloys by fused salt electrolysis using low cost lithium oxide as a lithium source will be investigated. The principal objective of the research is to develop physico-chemical information that can be applied to the direct processing of aluminum-lithium alloys for use in the manufacture of high strength, low density structures. Specifically, the research will address the determination of the following fundamental information: a) The solubility of lithium oxide in calcium fluoride-lithium fluoride melts will be determined as a function of melt composition and temperature. b) The anodic overvoltage on graphite during the electrolysis of calcium fluoride-lithium fluoride-lithium oxide melts will be measured. Anode reaction mechanism and limiting current density region will be evaluated. c) Efficiency of electrolysis will be determined. Effect of temperature, electrolyte composition, anode and cathode current densities, electrode spacing and stirring of the cathode pool on efficiency will be evaluated. The method for processing of aluminum-lithium alloys will be less expensive, use low cost lithium compound feed and save energy by directly producing aluminum-lithium alloys within the electrolytic cell.