Improvement of energy efficiency and environmental footprint of Al production process, Phase III: Carbon Anode process

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This research program aims to fulfil the needs of Aluminium industry for HQP, simultaneously providing advanced technical solutions for environmental and energy issues, encountered with one of the most important Canadian industries; Aluminum production. The proposed research program is the continuity of a 12-year CRD program, jointly supported by NSERC and Alcoa Canada Co. The objectives of the present program are to generate scientific insight to better understand the anode manufacturing process, to improve the carbon anode quality, and to explore the bio-mass sources of carbon to replace fossil-based carbons in anodes; all aiming at improving energy efficiency and reducing the environmental impact of the smelting process. To achieve this goal, the specific projects were designed to fulfil the training requirements of HQPs, i.e. mastering the basic scientific concepts of real-life engineering projects and assessing the economic and environmental impacts of the research results. Simultaneously, the projects were chosen to address specific issues or questions encountered with the partner's current operational practice. Upon the completion of this program, we expect to have a better understanding of anode manufacturing process; i.e. mixing, forming and baking, allowing for a better process control. Furthermore, we do expect to get one step forward at finding zero carbon footprint sources for anodes. We also expect to contribute to the training of students to fulfil the mid-term needs of the industry in terms of highly qualified man-power. The HQPs are expected to get a deep understanding of the aluminium smelting process and of advanced materials characterization methods, making them ready to contribute to the competitiveness of the industry and wellness of the environment.