RUSAL conducts first-ever preheating and start-up of aluminium reduction cell using inert anodes

RUSAL, one of the world’s largest aluminium producers, has achieved a historic milestone. We have successfully conducted the first-ever preheating and start-up of an aluminium reduction cell using inert anodes. This groundbreaking aluminium electrolysis technology, which emits oxygen instead of greenhouse gases, represents a significant leap forward in sustainable aluminium production.

RUSAL announced a significant achievement in scaling inert anode technology—marking the first-ever preheating and industrial start-up of a reduction cell fully equipped with inert anodes. Previously, concerns about potential damage to inert anodes meant that the preheating and start-up of reduction cells were conducted using traditional carbon anodes, which were then gradually replaced with inert anodes. This process resulted in greenhouse gas emissions during the initial operation of the reduction cells and prolonged the stabilization period of inert anode technology. By contrast, the inert anode process releases pure oxygen into the atmosphere instead of CO2.

Preheating and starting up a new reduction cell are among the most complex and critical stages in aluminium production. After years of extensive research and development, implementing inert anodes in this process became possible. With this innovation, RUSAL has eliminated the use of carbon anodes, making the aluminium electrolysis process completely carbon-free and setting a new standard for environmental sustainability.

“This marks another significant step towards the sustainable production of the greenest aluminium and the decarbonization of the industry. We will continue implementing this groundbreaking technology, setting new standards for the metallurgical industry,” said Alexander Gusev, Director of the Inert Anode Reduction Cell Project at RUSAL ITC.

The industrial deployment of inert anode technology reinforces RUSAL’s unwavering commitment to 'green' aluminium production, strengthening its position as a leading producer of low-carbon primary aluminium in the global market. By spearheading innovations that eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from aluminium electrolysis, RUSAL is pioneering a more sustainable metallurgical industry.