This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project targets the efficient production of rare earth (misch metal) alloys for use in metal hydride battery electrodes. The electrolytic reduction of rare earth oxides will be studied. Deposition characteristics (potential, metal redissolution, sludge formation) of various rare earth components of misch metal will be investigated in Phase I, other aspects in Phase II. The information will be used to design, construct and operate a pilot cell for the production of misch metal with high feed utilization, high current efficiency, high product quality, and the ability to tailor product composition by adjusting feed properties. Availability of an economically attractive process to produce rare earth alloys is expected to lead to their domestic manufacture. This is desirable because their broad use in advanced materials is being projected.
