Abstract: This invention relates to the use of bubble-driven flow to enhance the dissolution and distribution of alumina in an aluminum electrolysis cell operating with inert anodes. By harnessing the driving force of bubbles rising along the sides of a sloped anode to induce circulation in a cell and by using a group of anodes to amplify the effect, alumina distribution can be maintained close to or at saturation without formation of muck/sludge. Alumina fed through point feeders at specific locations can be distributed throughout the entire cell rather than sinking to the bottom of the cell below the feed location. For a given circulation pattern, feeder locations can be optimized.

Abstract: A cermet inert anode having a reduced level of contaminating surface metal is disclosed. Methods for preparing cermet inert anodes and methods for treating cermet inert anodes are also disclosed. The methods generally use an oxidizing agent to convert metals on the surface of the anode to inert oxides and/or to otherwise remove the metal contaminants. The inert anodes of the present invention may be used in electrolytic reduction cells for the production of commercial purity aluminum, as well as other metals.

Abstract: Process for production of finely divided zirconium powder by reaction of solid magnesium with ZrCl.sub.4 in a molten salt bath maintained at a temperature below the melting point of magnesium. A preferred salt bath contains about 8 mole % ZrCl.sub.4 in an equimolar mixture of KCl and NaCl and is maintained at about 625.degree. C. Gaseous ZrCl.sub.4 and solid magnesium are continuously fed to a lower portion of the bath, the bath is continuously agitated, and bath containing MgCl.sub.2 is continuously removed. Zirconium powder recovered from the bath is generally spherical with a median particle size of about 2.2 .mu.m and is suitable for use in rapid rise time thermal batteries.

Abstract: A low temperature method of producing boron trichloride comprises reacting an oxide of boron and a reducto-chlorinating agent in a molten bath comprising a combination of metal chlorides having a melting point of not more than 600.degree. C, to form boron trichloride, and recovering the boron trichloride by vaporization from the bath.