A New Method of Tungsten Extraction by Liquid Cathode Molten Salt Electrolysis-Zinc Melt Separation

The article introduces a new method of tungsten extraction by liquid cathode molten salt electrolysis combined with zinc melt separation. This process leverages the unique advantages of molten salt electrolysis, such as high efficiency, environmental friendliness, and cost-effectiveness, to separate and recover refractory metal carbides. The method involves using molten salt as an electrolyte and refractory metal carbide as the anode, which dissolves into ions under electrolysis and is then reduced and deposited at the cathode. The electrolysis products are further processed through zinc melting and high-temperature liquid phase separation to achieve selective separation and extraction of tungsten. This innovative approach not only improves metal recovery rates but also aligns with the current trends of green metallurgy and circular economy, providing a sustainable solution for resource utilization and environmental protection.