RUSAL Achieves Preheating and Start-up of an Aluminum Reduction Cell Using Inert Anodes for the First Time

Foreks - RUSAL has achieved a historic milestone by conducting the preheating and start-up process of an aluminum reduction cell using inert anodes for the first time. This revolutionary aluminum electrolysis technology releases oxygen into the atmosphere instead of greenhouse gases. Until now, RUSAL used traditional carbon anodes for preheating and start-up during the industrial tests of this technology.

RUSAL announced significant success in scaling inert anode technology. The global leader in aluminum production conducted the preheating and industrial start-up process of a reduction cell equipped entirely with inert anodes for the first time. Prior to this revolutionary innovation, the preheating and start-up processes of reduction cells were performed using traditional carbon anodes due to concerns about the potential damage to inert anodes. This process caused greenhouse gas emissions during the initial operation of the reduction cells and prolonged the stabilization period of the inert anode technology. In contrast, the inert anode process releases pure oxygen into the atmosphere instead of CO2, unlike the traditional method.

The preheating and start-up processes of a new reduction cell are among the most complex and critical processes in aluminum production. The integration of inert anodes into this process has become possible as a result of extensive R&D activities. With this groundbreaking invention, RUSAL eliminates the need for carbon anodes while making the aluminum electrolysis process completely carbon-free and as environmentally friendly as possible.

Alexander Gusev, the director of the “Inert Anode Reduction Cell” project within RUSAL ITC, stated: “With this achievement, we have taken a significant step towards the sustainable production of the most 'green' aluminum and the decarbonization of the industry. We will continue to implement this groundbreaking technology and set new standards for the metallurgy industry.”

RUSAL aims to maintain its leadership in "green" production with the industrial adoption of inert anode technology and strengthen its position as a leading producer of low-carbon primary aluminum in the international market.