Mechanical Properties of Carbon Cathodes during Aluminium Electrolysis

Abstract

Based on the service ambient with aluminium electrolysis condition, the evolution of compressive strength, elastic modulus and stress-strain curve of carbon cathode samples under various conditions are investigated by experimental simulation method; the deterioration mechanism of the mechanical of carbon cathode is also studied. Results show that different carbon cathode materials and ambient conditions have great influence on strength and elastic modulus of carbon cthode. The mechanical properties such as compressive strength and elastic modulus of carbon catodes can be degraded by the erosion of sodium and molten salt during aluminium electrolysis, that has been confirmation by the SEM and XRD analysis.