Innovations in electrowinning technology

Recent increases in power prices have emphasized the need for genuine alternatives and improvements in existing and future electrowinning operations. Alternatives include use of activated titanium anodes. Performance, price and behavior of these anodes are substantially different than those of lead-based anodes currently used in electrowinning plants. However, these anodes can only be successfully introduced in metal electrowinning operations if electrodes, cells, and tankhouse are redesigned. This paper reviews options that can be used to accomplish this goal. Experimental results attained so far are presented. This overview comprises the following aspects: Fundamentals of high current density electrowinning processes; Improved design (electrode, cell, and tankhouse); Results of tests under industrial pilot plant conditions; and Economic feasibility of the process. (author)