Work

Production of ultrafine zinc powder from wastes containing zinc by electrowinning in alkaline solution

Year: 2013

Type: article

Abstract: Production of ultrafine zinc powder from industrial wastes by electrowinning in alkaline solution was studied. Stainless steel and magnesium electrodes were used as anode and cathode, respectively. Morphology, size distribution and composition of the Zn particles were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy, Laser Particle Size Analyzer, and Inductive Coupled Plasma Emission Spectrometer. The required composition of the electrolyte for ultrafine particles was found to be 25-35 g/L Zn, 200-220 g/L NaOH and 20-40 mg/L Pb. The optimal conditions were a current density of 1000-1200 A/m² and an electrolyte temperature of 30-40 °C. The results indicated that the lead additive exerted a beneficial effect on the refining of the particles, by increasing the cathodic polarization. Through this study, ultrafine zinc powder with a size distribution of around 10 μm could be produced, and considerably high current efficiencies (97-99 %) were obtained.

Source: Brazilian Journal of Chemical Engineering

DOI: 10.1590/s0104-66322013000400017

Authors: Zhao Youcai, Li Qiang, Zhang Chenglong, Jiang Jiachao

Institutions: Tongji University, Shanghai Polytechnic University, China University of Mining and Technology

Language: English

Topic: Extraction and Separation Processes

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,990