Electrorefining of zirconium metal in alkali chloride and alkali fluoride fused electrolytes

The electrorefining of zirconium metal in alkali halide melts has been investigated. Variables affecting the electrodeposition process such as the composition of the electrolyte, the current density, and the configuration of the electrodes were studied. Two types of electrolytes were used: the alkali chloride-rich and the alkali fluoride-rich electrolytes. The various electrolytes are considered in terms of their ability to complex the soluble zirconium ions, a property which is important for the electrodeposition of coherent metal deposits from these melts. Crystalline zirconium metal of good quality has been obtained from fluoride melts containing NaF, LiF, and either ZrF4 or K2ZrCl6 at about 7500C