Performances of Green and Eco-Friendly Ramming Pastes in EGA Pots

Abstract

Consistent and high quality ramming paste products, installed according to optimized procedures, are required for improved operation and longer pot life. However, ramming paste used to be a hazardous product and needs special precautions for handling and application. A 100% eco-friendly cold ramming paste has been developed by Carbone Savoie and tested at Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) sites. A test has also been developed by Carbone Savoie to follow-up, identify and quantify emissions during the baking of paste up to 1000˝C. Physico-chemical characteristics of various pastes are presented, together with their composition in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and volatile organic compounds (VOC), determined by an accredited laboratory and the results of emissions during paste baking. The results of pot operation at the EGA sites show no harmful impact on pot preheat, early operation, or regular operation performance. Pot performance data are given for comparison. The new paste offers a green and clean alternative to harsh chemicals typically associated with the industry.

Biocarbon in the Aluminium Industry: A Review

“…al. [6] shows that these eco-friendly pastes do not affect regular operations in any harmful way. Molasses are mentioned as a possible source for the bio based binder for ramming paste.…”

“…Currently, one area where the use of bio-pitch could gain ground is the manufacture of the so-called clean or eco-friendly ramming paste, which is used as a sealant during the construction of the carbon cathode section of the electrolysis cells [6]. The shift to a more environmentally friendly ramming paste is mainly motivated by the PAH emissions in the pot rooms during the baking of the ramming paste before start-up of the electrolysis cells.…”

“…Of course, this requires that the bio based carbon material source is renewable and sustainable to ensure that there is constant regeneration to take up the emitted CO2. Beside the reduction in CO2, it is also expected that the use of bio based carbon in making materials such as the carbon anode and ramming paste provides a green and clean alternative to the harmful substances emitted during the baking process, such as PAH (polyaromatic hydrocarbons) [6].…”