Design and investigation of a fractional crystallization-based method using an immersed rotational crystallizer for the production of high purity aluminum

En savoir plus sur le livre

Advances in high technology and semiconductor industries demand more efficient purification processes in materials science. Fractional crystallization is a key methodology, with the immersed rotational crystallizer technique (cooled finger) emerging as a promising solution. This technique generates intense forced convection through high-speed rotation, reducing the diffusion layer thickness at the crystallization interface and enhancing impurity segregation. This dissertation centers on designing an efficient fractional crystallization cooled finger apparatus and deeply investigating the underlying process mechanisms. Key process parameters influencing purification were defined and explored. A series of trials examined the impact of impurity type and concentration on aluminum purification ratios. To further analyze convection's effect on solute segregation, results from aluminum purification using the cooled finger method were compared to models based on static layer thickness theory and convection coefficient. Insights gained from this investigation informed the development of a second cooled finger apparatus, which was designed for and installed in a vacuum resistance furnace to purify Germanium.