Abstract: A method of electrolytically recovering gallium and/or alkali metals from alkali metal solutions, preferably aluminate (sodium aluminate) liquors from aluminate production in which the gallium or alkali metal is electrolytically deposited on a mercury layer of the thickness of several microns applied to a metallic support which is more electronegative than mercury (preferably copper) by amalgamation or cementation from a mercury salt solution. The deposition of metals is carried out at a temperature below 50.degree. C and the cathode is then treated with a solvent, e.g. mercury or water, to remove the deposited elements.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
September 12, 1975
Date of Patent:
March 15, 1977
Assignee:
Ajkai Timfoldgyar es Aluminiumkoho
Inventors:
Istvan Somosi, Bela Toth, Jozsef Boros, Janos Vitez