Although sufficient quantities of primary metals (such as aluminum) are presently available at low enough prices, recycling and recovery of metal resources, in an environmentally-acceptable manner, are topics of national importance. This proposal outlines a study to examine certain fundamental parameters (such as oxidation rates) in the electrochemical separation of magnesium from molten aluminum. The proposed method of separation is novel, and the parameters proposed for examination are key factors in the design and evaluation of the proposed method. In addition, it appears that the proposed research might lead to information of more generic utility. The principal investigator and his employer, EMEC Consultants, have the expertise and the resources to conduct the proposed work and qualify for support under the Small Business Innovation Research Program. Support at the requested level of $40,000 for six months (from FY87 funds) is recommended.
