Biomaterials for carbon anode in aluminium production
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Kungliga Tekniska Högskolan - Kungliga Tekniska Högskolan Inst f materialvetenskap |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 4 000 000 |
| Project duration | August 2023 - July 2026 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | The strategic innovation programme Bioinnovation |
| Call | Enabling technologies and processes for bio-based products |
Important results from the project
The project first reviewed relevant research, then analysed the toxicity and chemical composition of bio-oil and its fractions. A bio-binder was produced through multi-stage heat treatment, while biochar was upgraded by acid washing and high-temperature treatment to reduce impurities and improve its carbon structure. Finally, laboratory-scale bio-based carbon anodes were produced, demonstrating replacement potential. LCA and techno-economic assessments were also completed.
Expected long term effects
In the long term, the project is expected to reduce the use of fossil-based coal tar pitch (CTP) and calcined petroleum coke (CPC) in aluminium production. This could lower greenhouse gas emissions, improve the working environment, and create new applications for sustainable bio-oil and biochar. The project also provides a technical foundation for industrial scale-up and future aluminium production with a lower fossil-carbon footprint.
Approach and implementation
Envigas supplied bio-oil and biochar produced under different conditions. KTH upgraded them into bio-binder and biocarbon. Norsk Hydro defined quality criteria, characterised the samples and provided feedback for material improvement. Envigas then improved its process accordingly. Cooperation among the partners was very good. The project was extended by six months due to modifications to the KTH laboratory.