Cup-shaped functionally gradient NiFe2O4-based cermet inert anodes for aluminum reduction

Application of inert anode and wet-table cathode technology for aluminum reduction will result in significant energy and environmental benefits, so it has been a research focus for several decades. The candidate as inert anode concentrates on oxide ceramic, cermet, and alloy. This paper reviews briefly the research progress and presents the achievements of Central South University, Changsha, China, in developing an NiFe₂O₄-based cermet inert anode, which includes the preparation and optimization of material performance, the joint between the cermet anode and metallic bar, as well as the results of electrolysis testing for a large inert anode group. At the same time, the problems for NiFe₂O₄-based cermet inert anode faced are discussed.