Abstract: A method for determining low level concentrations of alkaline earth metals in a concentrated aqueous alkali metal chloride brine containing alkaline earth metal ions comprises heating a sample of the brine to a temperature sufficient to remove water and form anhydrous alkali metal chloride. The anhydrous alkali metal chloride is then further heated to a temperature range in which the alkali metal chloride undergoes a change. The anhydrous alkali metal chloride is then vaporized and the alkaline earth metals atomized and passed through an analyzer where the concentration of alkaline earth metals are determined.Using the method of the present invention, alkaline earth metals such as calcium can be detected in concentrations as low as 1 part per billion, while magnesium can be detected in concentrations as low as 0.4 parts per billion.

Abstract: An improved metal anode assembly formed as an integral titanium casting which is comprised of a spider-like distributor having an anodic surface secured to the bottom thereof. At least one anode post receiver is formed in the top of the distributor. The active face of the anodic surface is coated with at least one oxide of a platinum group metal. Utilizing cast titanium to form the distributor, the anode post receiver and the anodic surface of the metal anode assembly of this invention simplifies fabrication of the metal anode assembly and improves the durability and stability of the metal anode assembly.