Electrolytic extraction of a metal from its metal compound: estimates of optimal energy requirements and their consequences
Name
914731759-MIT.pdf
Description
Full printable version
Size
9.35 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
76ac6b71a007b0d141bfc29d1db16631
Author(s)
Angarita Fonseca, Maria Paula
Advisor(s)
Antoine Allanore.
Date Issued
2015
Publisher
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Abstract
To ensure the sustainability of a world whose growing population demands more materials, products, and energy, we must closely examine the sustainability of the industries that supply them. Metal-making industries encounter an opportunity space at the extraction stage of a metal life cycle when aiming at making a significant impact in energy efficiency and carbon emission mitigation. We first develop a thermodynamic model that establishes the technical criteria for the most efficient operation of an electrolytic cell for a variety of metals. Second, we explore the rigidity of the operating boundary conditions and their impact on energy consumption. We then proceed to examine the energy and carbon impact of a hypothetical electrolytic ferrochromium operation in the United States. This case study demonstrates that the thermodynamic model can serve as a reference framework through which diverse stakeholders can compare the environmental impact of existing and innovative metal extraction processes in order to make informed decisions about environmental regulation, investments, subsidies, and mineral resource management.
Description
Thesis: S.M. in Technology and Policy, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Engineering Systems Division, 2015.
Cataloged from PDF version of thesis.
Includes bibliographical references (pages 62-66).
Subjects
Engineering Systems Division.
Technology and Policy Program.
MIT Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Engineering Systems Division
Terms of Use
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