Electrolytic method of continuous production of multicomponent metal powders

Abstract

1. A process has been developed for the continuous electrolytic preparation of iron-nickel powders of any desired component ratio. The process is based on the use for electrolysis of composite anodes and an auxiliary iron-gauze electrode with independent regulation of the currents passing through each electrode. 2. An investigation was conducted into the effects of electrolysis parameters (cathodic current density, solution composition, concentration and acidity, temperature, etc.) on the current yield, chemical composition, and particle size of the powder. By varying the cathodic current density, the Ni/Fe ratio of the solution, and, accordingly, the ratio of the anodic currents, it is possible to obtain iron-nickel powders of various particle sizes and any required composition. 3. The optimum electrolysis parameters for the preparation of iron-nickel powders of various compositions and particle sizes have been established. 4. The resulting powders were subjected to metallographic and x-ray diffraction examinations and sieve analysis, and their hydrogen and oxygen contents were determined. It was found that, structurally, the powders are solid solutions of one of the components in the other. 5. The new process for the electrolytic preparation of iron-nickel powders was tested and found to be effective at the Leningrad Coke and Gas Plant.