Metallurgy
Pilot-Scale Aluminothermic Silicon Production
M. Zhu, H. Philipson, K. Blandhol et al.
Abstract
NTNU, Elkem, and SINTEF researchers demonstrate pilot-scale aluminothermic silica reduction using secondary aluminum materials to produce silicon-rich alloys and alumina-rich slag.
Pilot-Scale Aluminothermic Silicon Production
Conventional silicon production relies on carbon-based reduction of silica at high temperatures, generating direct CO₂ emissions.
Researchers from NTNU, Elkem Technology, and SINTEF investigated the SisAl process, an alternative method using aluminum-based reductants and secondary industrial materials.
Key Research Findings
Pilot-scale production of silicon-rich alloys containing approximately 70–75 wt% silicon.
Generation of calcium-aluminate-rich slag with potential for further alumina recovery.
Evaluation of aluminum blocks, scrap, and dross as reductants.
Demonstration of process control through feedstock ratios and operating conditions.
Industrial Significance
The study establishes pilot-scale technical evidence for alternative silicon production and industrial material circularity.
Additional refining, environmental assessment, and commercial-scale validation are required for advanced silicon applications.
Original publication: Zhu, M., Philipson, H., Blandhol, K., et al. (2024). Pilot-Scale Aluminothermic Production of Silicon Alloy and Alumina-Rich Slag.
Journal: ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering, 12(40), 14795–14809.
Source: https://doi.org/10.1021/acssuschemeng.4c05326
Independent academic research. Presented for technical reference; results are not SilexTech experimental achievements.
