Container for corrosive electrolytes

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This invention relates to containers for highly corrosive solutions and more particularly to containers for use in the electrolytic refinement or electrowinning of metals such as copper.

[0002] In one type of process for the refinement of metals such as copper, a substantially pure copper anode is immersed in a suitable electrolyte, such as, a hydrochloric or sulphuric acid solution. The copper is deposited in a pure form on a cathode when an electric current is passed between the electrodes.

[0003] One type of prior art container employed for such electrolytic cells consists of an open concrete shell having end and side walls, a bottom and a lead or plastic lining. Spent electrolyte in the cell is replaced by introducing fresh electrolyte at one end of the cell and beneath the electrolyte's surface. At the opposite end of the cell, the spent electrolyte flows into an overflow box from which it is drained by an overflow pipe. Fresh electrolyte is normally fed into the cell at temperatures of about 60-71°C (140-160°F), while the spent electrolyte in the cell will normally be at a lower temperature. It is important to withdraw the colder, spent electrolyte since it tends to solidify at about 50°C (120°F).

[0004] Prior art cells were not wholly satisfactory because either the method of introducing electrolyte did not insure even distribution of fresh electrolyte along the bottom of the vessel or easily damaged piping was employed. Prior art vessels were also unsatisfactory because the overflow and decanting pipes were susceptible to physical damage, particularly during loading or unloading of cells with anodes and cathodes. Prior art containers were also not wholly satisfactory because the linings often failed resulting in concrete failure before the leaks were detected resulting in the loss of slimes and electrolyte. For this reason, prior art concrete cells required high maintenance, high repair and replacement costs and caused excessive downtime and lost production. In addition, the iron reinforcing bars provide a leakage path for stray electric currents which reduced current efficiency and affected cathode quality. Furthermore, because prior cells tended to absorb highly toxic materials, environmental concerns result in high disposal costs.

[0005] One prior art effort to improve such electrolytic cells included a shell fabricated from a mixture of about 20 percent resin and 80 percent various aggregates such as pea size gravel, fine silica sand, silica flour and 6.35 to 3.17 mm (one-quarter to one-eighth inch) chopped fiber glass strands. These prior art cells had the disadvantage of relatively high fabrication costs, and a susceptibility to short circuiting as a result of the use of reinforcing rods which include ferrous materials. Another disadvantage of prior art cells was that the molding process by which they were formed resulted in cold joints, irregular internal surfaces and required that overflow boxes be separately attached.

[0006] In EP-A-0170740 there is disclosed a composite material suitable for use in making containers or structures exposed to corrosive chemical attack. Such a composite material is achieved by mixing a synthetic plastic resin material with two different hardeners and employing a filler of particulate siliceous material which may be sand, gravel, quartz stones or the like. The synthetic resins employed may be selected from the group comprising vinylester, polyester, bisphenol, epoxy and isophthalic resins.

[0007] From US-A-3682809 there is known an electrolytic cell constructed for high circulation and uniform flow of electrolyte. Said electrolytic cell comprises at least one vertical input pipe having inflow orifices at intervals along its height and which is directed lengthwise for the input of electrolyte to said cell. Furthermore, US-A-2816070 discloses an electrolytic cell tank construction according to which fresh electrolyte is introducted by pipes which extend downwardly into the cell. Furthermore, US-A-3409536 discloses a container for corrosive electrolyte wherein an overflow box is provided with drain pipes.

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide an electrolytic cell wherein the inlet, overflow and decanting piping is less subject to damage. A further object of the present invention is to provide a container for electrolytic cells which has a longer life and lower maintenance costs, and is easier to maintain and install than prior art cells.

[0009] The above objects are achieved by the subject matter of claim 1. Further preferred embodiments are claimed in claims 2 to 22.

[0010] According to another aspect, the present invention comprises a method of manufacturing the container according to the present invention. Said method is defined in claim 23 with further preferred embodiments as claimed in claims 24 to 29.

[0011] The invention is further explained in the following description of preferred embodiments in connection with the drawings of which,

FIGURE 1 is a side elevational view, partly in section, showing a cell according to the present invention;

FIGURE 2 is an enlarged fragmentary cross-sectional view of one end of the cell illustrated in FIGURE 1;

FIGURE 3 is a view taken along lines 3--3 of FIGURE 2;

FIGURE 4 is an enlarged fragmentary cross-sectional view showing the other end of the cell illustrated in FIGURE 1;

FIGURE 5 is a view taken along lines 5--5 of FIGURE 4;

FIGURE 6 is an enlarged fragmentary view of a portion of the overflow box shown in FIGURES 2 and 3;

FIGURE 7 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIGURE 8 shows an alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIGURE 9 is a view taken along lines 9--9 of FIGURE 8;

FIGURES 10 and 11 show an alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIGURE 12 is a top plan view of the cell shown in FIGURE 1;

FIGURE 13 is a view taken along lines 13-13 of FIGURE 12;

FIGURE 14 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional view; and

FIGURE 15 is a sectional view of a mold in which the cell according to the invention is fabricated.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0012] A cell 10 according to the preferred embodiment of the invention is shown in the drawings to include a bottom 12, side walls 13 and 14, and end walls 15 and 16, only one side wall being seen in FIGURE 1. The cell may be formed of any suitable material such as the polymer concrete disclosed in U.S. patent No. 4,885,072. The inner and outer surfaces of the cell may be coated with a corrosion-resistant lining as will be discussed below. A matrix of reinforcing bars 17 of a nonconductive material, such as FRP fiber glass, is disposed in the bottom 12 and extends up the side and end walls 13, 14, 15 and 16 as reinforcement against damage.

[0013] An overflow box 18 is provided in a semi-cylindrical formation 19 integrally molded on the outer surface of end wall 16 and intermediate its ends and extending from its top to its bottom. The overflow box 18 is defined by a recess 20 formed in the inner portion of formation 19 and opening into the interior of the cell 10 and extending downwardly from its upper periphery. At the center of the formation 19 an overflow pipe 21 is cast and extends vertically from the recess 20 downwardly through the lower end of formation 19 and is open at its opposite ends. Spaced upwardly from the lower end of pipe 21, there is a T-joint 22 which opens into an opening 24 extending between the T-joint 22 and the inner surface 23 of wall 16. As a result, the interior of the cell 10 communicates with the overflow pipe 21 at a point spaced above the lower end of the cell. Normally, when the cell is full, a plug 26 is disposed within opening 24.

[0014] At the opposite end of the cell 10, there is a shallow inlet channel 30 formed in the inner surface 31 of the end wall 15 and extending from its upper end to a point spaced above the lower end of cell 10. A channel-shaped duct member 32 is suitably fixed over channel 30 to define a closed, hollow passage 34 therewith. In particular, channel member 32 has a flange 36 affixed to each side and extending along its length. The flanges 36 are fixed to the inner surface 31 of end wall 15 in any suitable manner such as bolts 38 which extend through openings in flanges 36 and are received in a plurality of metallic inserts 39 having internally threaded openings and molded into wall 15 in spaced apart relation along the sides of channel 30. Channel cover 32 extends from the upper to the lower ends of wall 15 and there is an opening 41 at its lower end which corresponds to the arcuate surface 42 at the lower end of channel 30. On the outer surface 44 of end wall 15 in the area of the channel 30, there is a formation 45 so that the channel 30 does not reduce the overall wall thickness.

[0015] When fresh electrolyte is being fed into the cell 10, it flows downwardly along channel 30 and between the surface of the channel and cover 32 and outwardly through the opening 41 for distribution at the bottom of the cell 10. This causes the spent, cooler electrolyte in the cell to rise and flow into overflow box 18 and downwardly through discharge pipe 21 where it is suitably collected. To decant the cell 10, the plug 26 is removed to permit the electrolyte to drain through the decant opening 24 which is above the level that sludge would normally collect. Such sludge may then be drained through a normally plugged drain hole 46. The bottom 12 of the cell may be sloped from one side and one one end to facilitate the removal of sludge.

[0016] The integral overflow box 18, discharge pipe 21, and decanting passage 24 according to the invention along with the inlet channel 30 and cover 32 eliminate exposed piping employed in prior art cells, and thereby substantially minimizes damage and maintenance expense.

[0017] As seen in FIGURE 6, the height of the upper end of pipe 20 may be extended by means of a fitting 50 and an extension pipe 51. The fitting 50 is telescoped over the end of pipe 21 and has an integral flange 53 on its inner surface which engages the upper peripheral edge of pipe 21. Extension pipe 51 has a pair of spaced apart peripheral grooves 55 and 56 in its outer surface for receiving a ring 58. Depending upon the added height desired, ring 58 will be disposed in either the lower or upper grooves. After ring 58 has been positioned, it is force fit into fitting 50 so as to fix the extension 51 in position and to seal its outer periphery. It will be appreciated that if a lower height is desired, ring 58 will be positioned in the upper groove 55. In addition, if greater height is desired, the upper portion of pipe 51 can be extended.

[0018] FIGURE 7 shows an alternate embodiment of the cover for channel 30. In particular, cover 62 is relatively plainer so that it does not protrude into the interior of the cell.

[0019] FIGURES 8 and 9 show an alternate embodiment of the invention wherein the inlet passage is cast into the end wall 15. In particular, the inlet channel is formed of a pipe 70 cast into wall 15 and having manifold pipes 72 and 73 extending laterally from its lower end and in general parallelism with wall 15. Each manifold pipe 72 and 73 has a plurality of laterally spaced apart pipe sections 75 extending in a direction parallel to the bottom 12 and opening into the cell 10. This provides a more even distribution of fresh electrolyte along the bottom 12 of the cell than can be achieved with the embodiment of FIGURES 1-7. While two pipe sections 75 are illustrated, it will be appreciated that any suitable number or size may be employed without deviating from the invention. Preferably, the diameters of the pipes 75 are greater than that of the pipes 73 as shown in FIGURES 8 and 9.

[0020] Another embodiment of the overflow pipe extension is shown in FIGURES 10 and 11 to include a cylindrical member 80 which is telescopingly received within overflow pipe 21. A flange 82 extends outwardly from member 80 to divide member 80 into a first portion 80a and a second portion 80b. It can be seen in FIGURES 9 and 10 that the flange 82 has a diameter greater than that of the pipe 21 and is closer to one end of the adapter 80 than the other so that the portion 80b is longer than the portion 80a. As a result, if the portion 80b of member 80 is inserted into pipe 21, the upper end of the extension will be at a first height while if portion 80a is disposed within the pipe 21, the upper end of the extension will have a second, higher elevation. In this manner, the upper end of the overflow pipe can be conveniently adjusted.

[0021] Electrolytic cells of the type discussed above must be nonporous and possess sufficient mechanical strength and must be chemically inert relative to the electrolyte which comprises a sulfuric or hydrochloric acid solution. One example of a cell with which the present invention may be used comprises a mixture of 10%-19% by weight of a modified vinylester or polyester thermo-setting resin, and the balance consists of a mixture of crystalline silica particles, and particles taken from the group consisting of mica flakes, glass beads and chopped fiber glass strands. The vinylester or polyester resin is thinned to reduce viscosity and permit higher filler loading. The viscosity of the vinylester or polyester resin should be less than 200 CPS as measured by a Brookfield viscosity meter Model LVT at 25°C (77°F) with a 13 spindle at 60 RPM. According to one example, the components by weight of the modified vinylester resin are as follows:

80%-90%

vinylester resin;

10%-20%

styrene monomer (thinner); 1%-5% degassing agent;

0.2%-2%

methyl ethyl ketone peroxide, or cumene hydroperoxide (catalyst);

0.05%-0.2%

inhibitor;

0.02%-0.6%

cobalt napthalate (6%) (promoter)

0.02%-0.5%

dimethyl aniline (100%) (promoter);

[0022] Any suitable inhibitor, such as 2.4 pentanedione may be employed and any suitable degassing agent such as xylene or acetone may be used.

[0023] The dry mixture comprises:

40%-60%

3.17-6.35 mm (1/8"-1/4") crystalline silica

10%-25%

1.59-3.17 mm (1/16"-1/8") crystalline silica

10%-15%

0.79-1.59 mm (1/32"-1/16") crystalline silica

10%-15%

fine silica sand

1%

mica flakes

[0024] Chopped fiber glass strands 6.35-3.17 mm (1/4"-1/8") or glass spheres can be substituted for the mica flakes. The proportions of resin and dry ingredients by weight in the final mixture, according to the preferred embodiment of the invention, are as follows:

10%-19%

modified vinylester or polyester resin

40%-60%

3.17 x 6.35 mm (1/8" x 1/4") crystalline silica

10%-25%

1.59 x 3.17 mm (1/16" x 1/8") crystalline silica

10%-15%

0.79 x 1.59 (1/32" x 1/16") crystalline silica

10%-15%

fine silica sand or silica flower

0.9%-5%

mica flakes, 6.35-3.17 mm (1/4"-1/8") chopped fiber glass strands, and/or glass spheres

[0025] In one specific example a resin mixture was prepared with the following ingredients:

450 pounds

1 pound = 453.6 g vinylester resin;

85 pounds

styrene monomer;

13 pounds

xylene;

1.5 pounds

methyl ethyl ketone peroxide;

15 ounces

1 ounce = 28.35 g pentanedione;

22 ounces

cobalt napthalate;

2 ounces

dimethyl aniline

Twenty-five pounds of the foregoing modified resin mixture was then mixed with the following quantities of dry ingredients:

100 pounds

3.17-6.35 mm (1/8"-1/4") crystalline silica

40 pounds

1.59-3.17 mm (1/16"-1/8") crystalline silica

20 pounds

0.79-1.59 mm (1/32"-1/16") crystalline silica

20 pounds

fine silica sand

2 pounds

mica flakes, chopped fiber glass strands 6.35 to 5.17 mm (1/4" to 1/8") or glass spheres can be substituted for the mica flakes

[0026] The resin acts as a binder for the dry materials and fills the interstices therebetween so that the container is impervious to the electrolyte solution and forms a corrosion-resistant material unaffected by the electrolyte solution. The chopped fiber glass strands, mica and/or glass spheres provide a tighter composite material which also reduces porosity and increases physical strength. The nonconductor reinforcing bars increase physical strength and allow the cells to be supported in only two areas if necessary.

[0027] In order to further enhance the corrosion resistance of the cell 10, a corrosion resistant coating 125 is provided. According to the preferred embodiment, coating 125, consists of a backing layer 126 consisting of 20%-30% by weight of an inorganic fiber reinforcement and 70%-80% by weight of pure polyester or vinylester resin. The fiber reinforcement may be a mat of fiber glass strands 12.7-50.8 mm (1/2"-2") long or a light cloth of fiber glass or other synthetic fiber. One such material is called Nexus veil. In addition, there is a surface coating 127 of vinylester or polyester resin which is 0.25-0.50 mm (10-20 mils) thick. It will be appreciated that the thickness of the layer 126 and the coating 127 are much exaggerated in FIGURE 13 and for purposes of illustration. In actual practice, the walls 113, 114, 115 and 116 are about 63.5-88.9 mm (2.5"-3.5") thick while the thickness of coating 127 is 0.25-0.50 mm (10-20 mils).

[0028] It was the practice to pour prior art cells in an upright mold. Because the inside bottom, side and end walls of the cell must be smooth to facilitate removal of the sludge, one common practice in molding prior art cells was to pour and trowel the bottom surface before continuing to pour the side and end walls. This sometimes resulted in a cold joint which adversely affected the physical strength of the cell and produced areas of leakage. In the method according to the invention, an inverted mold 130 as shown in FIGURE 5 is used to fabricate the cell 110.

[0029] The container according to the preferred embodiment of the invention is formed by applying to the surface of the mold a face layer of polyester or vinylester thermo-setting resin 10-20 mils thick, applying to the coating a backing layer of about 20%-30% by weight of an inorganic fiber reinforcement and about 70%-80% by weight pure polyester or vinylester resin, mixing polyester or vinylester resin and dry ingredients, all identified by the reference numeral 128, and then pouring the same continuously into the inverted mold 130 and onto said backing layer 126. In order to insure that the face coating 127 adheres to the surface of the mold 130, it is applied in the form of a gel coating either by spraying or rolling. One material that has been used successfully is Grey vinylester, code AG-00003B sold by Co-Plas, Inc. The fiber reinforcement may comprise a fiber glass mat formed of strands 12.7-50.8 mm (1/2"-2") long or a light cloth of fiber glass or other synthetic material.

[0030] The mixture, backing layer 126 and face coating 127 are then allowed to cure at room temperatures. Because an inverted mold is used, the inside bottom, side and end wall surfaces of the face coating are in contact with a smooth mold surface. Accordingly, these surfaces will also be relatively smooth without troweling. This permits continuous casting of the cell to insure that no cold joints are formed. Furthermore, because curing of the resin is air inhibited, the exposed surface layer 127 cures only when the resin and backing layer are allied so that air is excluded. Similarly, the exposed surface of layer 126 will cure only when the resin and and filler 128 are poured. As a result, molecular bonds are formed between the layers 126 and 127 and 126 and 128. These bonds form when air is excluded from the interface of adjacent resin layers and the same cure.

[0031] Casting the cell upside down also facilitates the casting of an integral overflow box with the cell. As a result, greater physical strength is achieved over prior art cells where the overflow box was cast separately and then attached to the cell. This prior art method caused leaks and made the overflow box susceptible to mechanical damage.

[0032] Because of the strength of the cell made in accordance with the mixture and reinforcing bars discussed above, a cell wall thickness of about 63.5 mm (two and one half inches) at the top and 76.2 mm (three and one half inches) at the bottom is satisfactory for a conventional cell which is about 4.9 m (sixteen feet) in length, 1.4 m (four and one half feet) in height and 1.4 m (four and one half feet) in width. Conventional concrete cells have a wall thickness of about 14 to 16.5 cm (five to six inches). As a result, cells made in accordance with the present invention provides cells with a greater internal capacity for the same outside dimensions. Since the one factor in determining the electrorefining capacity of a refining facility is by the number of cells and their capacity, the use of cells having thinner walls significantly increases total plant capacity. A typical electrolytic refinery has capacity of approximately 120,000 tons per year. This capacity could increase, for example, by approximately 3,170,000 Kg (7,000,000 Pounds) Per year with the additional internal cell capacity.

[0033] While the life expectancy of cells according to the present invention has not as yet been determined, it is estimated that as a result of their physical strength, impermeability and non-conductiveness, their useful life will be much longer than conventional concrete cells. In addition, any physical damage to cells according to the invention can be more readily repaired than prior art concrete cells, thereby reducing maintenance costs and production downtime.

[0034] The operating temperature of some prior art cells was limited to about 71°C (160°F) because the plastic linings employed tended to lose shape and reduce useful life at higher temperatures. With the cell according to the present invention, coupled with the use of nonconducting reinforcing rods, higher current densities and temperatures can be employed, thereby increasing production rates, quality and capacity.

[0035] Bars of elongate and preformed nonconductive material, such as, for example, precured fiber glass are preferably inserted into the bottom and side walls and corners of bottom-side and bottom-end wall corners of the container as the same is being poured thereby substantially increasing the physical strength properties and minimizing the possibility of electrical short-circuiting due to the use of metallic reinforcing bars in prior art containers. Such reinforcing lap boards which support the bars permit the electrodes to be mounted directly on the cell wall, thereby eliminating the necessity for an insulating board as in prior art devices.

[0036] While only a single embodiment of the invention is described herein, it is not intended to be limited thereby but only by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A container for a corrosive electrolyte used in an electrolytic process, said container consisting of a cured polymer concrete shell and having side walls (13,14), a pair of opposed end walls (15,16) between the side walls, and a bottom (12), each of said end walls having inner and outer surfaces, an overflow box (18) including a recess (20) and one end opening in the recess (20) into the interior of the container (10) in the upper end of one end wall and below the upper edge thereof,

characterized in that

there is a discharge passage (21) extending vertically through the interior of the one end wall (16) and covered entirely by the end wall, the discharge passage having an upper end opening in the recess (20) and a lower end opening at the lower end of the end wall which opens exteriorly of the container.

2. The container set forth in claim 1 further

characterized in that

there is a second passage (22) in the end wall (16) and extending generally horizontally from the inner surface of the end wall to the discharge passage (21).

3. The container set forth in claim 2 further

characterized in that

the discharge passage (21) comprises a first pipe embedded in the end wall and said second passage comprises a T-connection in said pipe and extending to the inner surface of the end wall (16).

4. The container set forth in claim 1 further

characterized in that

there is a second passage formed in the second end wall and in the inner surface thereof, said second passage extending from the upper end of said wall downwardly to a position adjacent its lower end.

5. The container set forth in claim 4 further

characterized in that

the second passage comprises a channel formed in the second end wall and on the inner surface thereof, and a cover is disposed over the channel and has an opening adjacent its upper and lower ends, the cover and the channel defining a vertical passage along the inner surface of the outer wall and which is open at its upper end and adjacent the bottom of the cell.

6. The container set forth in claim 4 further

characterized in that

the second passage is defined by a pipe molded into said second end wall and beneath the surface thereof, the pipe defining a vertical passage within the second end wall and which is open at its upper end and adjacent the bottom of the cell.

7. The container set forth in claim 6 wherein there are multiple openings in the lower end of the pipe and spaced apart adjacent the bottom of the cell whereby fresh electrolyte may be dispersed along the bottom of the cell.

8. The container set forth in claim 7 further

characterized in that

the multiple opening means are defined by a pair of manifold pipe means disposed in said second end wall and adjacent the lower end thereof, each of the manifold pipe means having a plurality of spaced apart openings communicating with said container.

9. The container set forth in claim 5 further

characterized in that

wherein the other end wall has a formation on its outer surface corresponding to the channel and extending from its upper to its lower end so that the channel does not diminish the relative thickness of the end wall at said channel.

10. The container set forth in claim 9 further

characterized in that

the channel has an arcuate surface at its lower end facing inwardly, the opening adjacent the lower end of said cover being opposed to said arcuate surface, whereby electrolyte delivered to said passage will flow downwardly along said channel and be redirected by said arcuate surface outwardly of said opening for distribution of the electrolyte along the bottom of the container.

11. The container set forth in claim 10 further

characterized in that

there is a third passage formed in the formation and extending generally horizontally from the inner surface of the end wall to the discharge passage.

12. The container set forth in claim 11 further

characterized in that

the discharge passage is defined by a first pipe embedded in said formation, and said second passage is formed by a connection in said pipe and extending to the inner surface of the end wall.

13. The container set forth in claim 1 and including extension means adjustably coupled to the upper end of the discharge passage means for extending said passage means above the level of the recess.

14. The container set forth in claim 13, wherein the discharge passage means comprises pipe means embedded in said formation and extending from its upper to its lower end, the extension means comprising a short pipe section, and ring means surrounding the pipe section for engaging the upper end of said pipe means for supporting the pipe section and sealing the outer periphery thereof, the pipe section extending the length of the pipe means above the recess.

15. The container for a corrosive electrolyte as set forth in claim 2 and further

characterized in that

a corrosion resistant layer is provided and comprises a face layer of a material taken from the group consisting of vinylester resin and polyester resin and a backing layer consisting of an inorganic fiber impregnated with a material taken from the group consisting of vinylester resin and polyester resin.

16. The container set forth in claim 15 further

characterized in that

the backing layer is about 20% - 30% by weight fiber and about 70%- 80% by weight resin.

17. The container set forth in claim 16 further

characterized in that

the inorganic fiber is fiber glass in the form of a mat.

18. The container set forth in claim 16 further

characterized in that

the mat is formed of strands 12.7 - 50.8 mm (1/2" to 2") long.

19. The container set forth in claim 17 or 18 and further

characterized in that

the face layer is about 0.25 - 0.50 mm (10 - 20 mils) thick.

20. The container set forth in claim 17 further

characterized in that

the polymer concrete consists of 10% - 19% by weight of a resin taken from the group consisting of vinylester and polyester thermo-setting resin.

21. The container set forth in claim 18 further

characterized in that

the modified resin comprises 80% - 90% of a resin taken from the group consisting of vinylester and polyester resin and the balance a thinning agent, inhibitors, promoters and a catalyst.

22. The container set forth in claim 17 further

characterized in that

the crystalline silica comprises 40% - 60% by weight particles 6.35 - 3.17 mm (1/4" - 1/8") in size, 10% - 25% by weight particles 3.17 - 1.59 mm (1/8" - 1/16") in size and 10% - 15% fine silica sand or silica flour and including 0.9% - 5% by weight particles taken from the group consisting of mica flakes about 0.39 mm (1/64") in size and 6.35 - 3.17 mm (1/4" - 1/8") chopped fiber glass strands.

23. A method of manufacturing the container set forth in claim 1

characterized in that

said method comprises the steps of applying to the surface of a mold, a face layer consisting of material taken from the group consisting of vinylester resin and polyester resin, applying to said face layer consisting of an inorganic fiber mat impregnated with material taken from the group consisting of polyester resin and vinylester resin, mixing a thermo-setting resin taken from the group consisting of vinylester and polyester resin and a filler loading consisting of an aggregate of particles, and continuously pouring the mixture into an inverted mold having said face layer and backing which defines bottom, ends and side walls and allowing said molded mixtrue to cure whereby the surfaces of the container will contact the mold surfaces so that smooth inner surfaces will be molded.

24. The method set forth in claim 23, wherein said inorganic fiber is fiber glass in the form of a mat.

25. The method set forth in claim 23, wherein said mat is formed of strands 12.7 - 50.8 mm (1/2" - 2") long.

26. The method set forth in claim 14, wherein said face layer is about 0.25 - 0.50 mm (10 - 20 mils) thick.

27. The method set forth in claim 26 further

characterized in that

the backing layer is about 20% - 30% by weight fiber and about 70% - 80% by weight resin.

28. The method set forth in claim 27 further

characterized in that

the aggregate comprises a mixture of 80% -90% by weight of particles which are 6.2 - 079 mm (1/4" - 1/32") in size, 10% - 15% by weight particles taken from the group consisting of fine silica sand silica flour and 0.9% - 5% by weight of particles taken from the group consisting of mica flakes about 0.39 mm (1/64") in size and chopped fiber glass strands 6.35 - 3.17 mm (1/4" - 1/8") in size.

29. The method as set forth in claim 27 further

characterized in that

the modified resin comprises 80% - 90% of a resin taken from the group consisting of vinylester and polyester resin and the balance a thinning agent, inhibitors, promoters and catalyst.

Ansprüche

1. Behälter für ein ätzendes Elektrolyt zur Verwendung in einem elektrolytischen Verfahren, wobei der Behälter aus einem gehärteten Polymerbeton besteht und aufweist Seitenwände (13, 14), ein Paar gegenüberliegender Stirnwände (15, 16) zwischen den Seitenwänden und einen Boden (12), wobei jede der Seitenwände eine Innen- und eine Außenfläche aufweist, einen eine Ausnehmung (20) aufweisenden Überlauf (18) und eine in der Ausnehmung (20) am oberen Ende einer Stirnwand und unterhalb ihrer Oberkante ausgebildete stirnseitige Öffnung zum Inneren des Behälters (10) aufweist, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß eine Ablaßleitung (21) ausgebildet ist, die sich im Inneren der einen Stirnwand (16) vertikal erstreckt und vollständig von der Stirnwand abgedeckt ist, wobei die Ablaßleitung in der Ausnehmung (20) eine oberseitige Öffnung und am unteren Ende der Stirnwand eine sich zur Außenseite des Behälters öffnende unterseitige Öffnung aufweist.

2. Behälter nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß in der Stirnwand (16) eine sich im wesentlichen horizontal von der Innenfläche der Stirnwand zur der Ablaßleitung (21) erstreckende zweite Leitung (22) ausgebildet ist.

3. Behälter nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Ablaßleitung (21) ein erstes, in die Stirnwand eingebettetes Rohr aufweist und daß die zweite Leitung eine sich zu der Innenfläche der Stirnwand (16) erstreckende T-Verbindung in dem Rohr aufweist.

4. Behälter nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß eine zweite Leitung in der zweiten Stirnwand und an deren Innenfläche ausgebildet ist und daß die zweite Leitung sich von dem oberen Ende der Wand nach unten zu einer Stelle in der Nähe ihres unteren Endes erstreckt.

5. Behälter nach Anspruch 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die zweite Leitung einen in der zweiten Stirnwand und auf ihrer Innenfläche ausgebildeten Kanal aufweist und daß eine Abdeckung über dem Kanal angeordnet ist, die eine Öffnung in der Nähe ihrer oberen und unteren Enden aufweist, wobei die Abdeckung und der Kanal entlang der Innenfläche der Außenwand eine vertikale Leitung bilden, die an ihrem oberen Ende und in der Nähe des Bodens der Zelle offen ist.

6. Behälter nach Anspruch 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die zweite Leitung durch ein in die zweite Stirnwand und unterhalb ihrer Oberfläche geformtes Rohr gebildet ist, wobei das Rohr innerhalb der zweiten Stirnwand eine vertikale Leitung bildet, die an ihrem oberen Ende in der Nähe des Bodens der Zelle offen ist.

7. Behälter nach Anspruch 6, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß mehrere Öffnungen am unteren Ende des Rohres ausgebildet und in der Nähe des Bodens der Zelle voneinander beabstandet sind, so daß frisches Elektrolyt entlang des Bodens der Zelle fein verteilt werden kann.

8. Behälter nach Anspruch 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Mehrfachöffnungen durch ein Paar in der zweiten Stirnwand und in der Nähe ihres unteren Endes angeordnete Verteilerrohre gebildet sind, wobei jedes Verteilerrohr mehrere voneinander beabstandete Öffnungen aufweist, die mit dem Behälter kommunizieren.

9. Behälter nach Anspruch 5, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die andere Stirnwand an ihrer Außenfläche ein Gebilde aufweist, das dem Kanal entspricht und sich von seinem oberen zu seinem unteren Ende derart erstreckt, daß die relative Dicke der Stirnseite an dem Kanal durch den Kanal nicht verringert wird.

10. Behälter nach Anspruch 9, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß der Kanal eine an seinem unteren Ende ausgebildete, nach innen zeigende, gekrümmte Fläche aufweist und daß die Öffnung in der Nähe des unteren Endes der Abdeckung dieser gekrümmten Fläche gegenüberliegt, so daß in die Leitung gefördertes Elektrolyt entlang des Kanals nach unten fließt und durch die gekrümmte Fläche aus der Öffnung zur Verteilung des Elektrolyts entlang des Bodens des Behälters abgelenkt wird.

11. Behälter nach Anspruch 10, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß in dem Gebilde eine dritte, sich im wesentlichen horizontal von der Innenfläche der Stirnwand zu der Ablaßleitung erstreckende dritte Leitung ausgebildet ist.

12. Behälter nach Anspruch 11, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Ablaßleitung durch ein erstes, in die Stirnwand eingebettetes Rohr gebildet ist und daß die zweite Leitung durch eine Verbindung in dem Rohr gebildet ist und sich zu der Innenfläche der Stirnwand erstreckt.

13. Behälter nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß eine Verlängerung passend an dem oberen Ende der Ablaßleitung angeschlossen ist, um die Leitung oberhalb der Ausnehmung zu verlängern.

14. Behälter nach Anspruch 13, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Ablaßleitung ein in dem Gebilde eingebettetes und sich von seinem unteren Ende zu seinem oberen Ende erstreckendes Rohr aufweist, daß die Verlängerung ein kurzes Rohrstück aufweist und daß ein das Rohrstück umgebender Ring zur Anlage an dem oberen Ende des Rohres angeordnet ist, um das Rohrstück abzustützen und dessen Umfang abzudichten, wobei das Rohrstück die Länge des Rohres oberhalb der Ausnehmung überragt.

15. Behälter für ein ätzendes Elektrolyt nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß eine korrosionsbeständige Schicht vorgesehen ist, die eine Oberschicht aus einem Material, ausgewählt aus der Gruppe, bestehend aus Vinylester- und Polyesterharz, und eine Unterschicht aus einer mit einem Material der Gruppe Vinylester- und Polyesterharz beschichteten, anorganischen Faser umfaßt.

16. Behälter nach Anspruch 15, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Unterschicht ungefähr 20 bis 30 Gew.-% Fasern und ungefähr 70 bis 80 Gew.-% Harz enthält.

17. Behälter nach Anspruch 16, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die anorganische Faser Glasfaser in Form einer Matte ist.

18. Behälter nach Anspruch 16, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Matte aus 12,7 bis 50,8 mm (1/2 " bis 2") langen Stücken gebildet ist.

19. Behälter nach Anspruch 17 oder 18, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Oberschicht ungefähr 0,25 bis 0,5 mm (10 bis 20 mils) dick ist.

20. Behälter nach Anspruch 17, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß der Polymerbeton 10 bis 19 Gew.-% eines Harzes, ausgewählt aus der Gruppe, bestehend aus warm aushärtendem Vinylester- und Polyesterharz, enthält.

21. Behälter nach Anspruch 18, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß der modifizierte Harz 80 bis 90 % eines Harzes, ausgewählt aus der Gruppe, bestehend aus Vinylester- und Polyesterharz, enthält, wobei der Rest aus einem Verdünnungsmittel, Inhibitoren, Aktivatoren und einem Katalysator besteht.

22. Behälter nach Anspruch 17, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das kristallförmige Siliciumdioxid 40 bis 60 Gew.-% Partikel der Größe 6,35 - 3,17 mm (1/4 " bis 1/8 "), 10 - 25 Gew.-% Partikel der Größe 3,17 - 1,59 mm (1/8 " - 1/16 ") und 10 - 15 % feinen Quarzsand bzw. Quarzmehl umfaßt und 0,9 - 5 Gew.-% Partikel, ausgewählt aus der Gruppe, bestehend aus Glimmerflocken in einer Größe von ungefähr 0,39 mm (1/64 "), und zerkleinerten Glasfaserstücken in einer Größe von 6,35 - 3,17 mm (1/4 " - 1/8 ") einschließt.

23. Verfahren zum Herstellen eines Behälters gemäß Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß auf der Oberfläche einer Form eine Oberschicht aus einem Material, ausgewählt aus der Gruppe, bestehend aus Vinylesterharz und Polyesterharz, aufgebracht wird, daß auf die Oberschicht eine mit einem Material der Gruppe, bestehend aus Polyesterharz und Vinylesterharz, beschichtete, anorganische Fasermatte aufgebracht wird, daß ein warm aushärtender Harz, ausgewählt aus der Gruppe, bestehend aus Vinylester- und Polyesterharz, und ein aus Partikelaggregaten bestehender Füllstoff vermischt werden und daß die Mischung kontinuierlich in eine die Oberschicht und die Trägerschicht aufweisende Negativform eingegossen wird, die Boden-, Stirn- und Seitenwände bildet und ein Aushärten der geformten Mischung ermöglicht, wobei die Oberflächen des Behälters in Kontakt mit den Formoberflächen sind, so daß glatte, innere Oberflächen geformt werden.

24. Verfahren nach Anspruch 23, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die anorganische Faser eine Glasfaser in Form einer Matte ist.

25. Verfahren nach Anspruch 23, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Matte aus Stücken einer Länge von 12,7 - 50,8 mm (1/2 " - 2 ") gebildet wird.

26. Verfahren nach Anspruch 14, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die obere Schicht in einer Dicke von 0,25 - 0,50 mm (10 - 20 mils) ausgebildet wird.

27. Verfahren nach Anspruch 26, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Trägerschicht mit einem Anteil von 20 - 30 Gew.-% Fasern und 70 - 80 Gew.-% Harz ausgebildet wird.

28. Verfahren nach Anspruch 27, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß Aggregate einer Mischung von 80 - 90 Gew.-% von Partikeln der Größe 6,2 - 0,79 mm (1/4 " - 1/32 "), 10 - 15 Gew.-% Partikel aus der Gruppe, bestehend aus Quarzsand bzw. Sandmehl, und 0,9 - 5 Gew.-% Partikel aus der Gruppe, bestehend aus Glimmerflocken einer Größe von ungefähr 0,39 mm (1/64 "), und zerkleinerten Glasfaserstücken der Größe 6,35 - 3,17 mm (1/4 " - 1/8 ") verwendet werden.

29. Verfahren nach Anspruch 27, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß der modifizierte Harz 80 - 90 % eines Harzes aus der Gruppe, bestehend aus Vinylester- und Polyesterharz, enthält, wobei der Rest aus einem Verdünnungsmittel, Inhibitoren, Aktivatoren und einem Katalysator besteht.

Revendications

1. Cuve pour électrolyte corrosif utilisée dans un procédé, ladite cuve consistant en une coque de béton de résine synthétique durcie et comportant des parois latérales (13, 14), une paire de parois d'extrémité opposées (15, 16) situées entre les parois latérales, et un fond (12), chacune desdites parois d'extrémité comportant une surface intérieure et une surface extérieure, une boite de débordement (18) comprenant une cavité (20) et, dans la cavité (20), une ouverture d'extrémité débouchant dans l'intérieur de la cuve (10), à l'extrémité supérieure de l'une des parois d'extrémité et en-dessous du bord supérieur de celle-ci
caractérisée en ce qu'
il existe un passage d'évacuation (21) qui s'étend verticalement dans l'intérieur de l'une des parois d'extrémité (16), et qui est entièrement recouvert par la paroi d'extrémité, le passage d'évacuation comportant une extrémité supérieure débouchant dans la cavité (20) et une extrémité inférieure ouverte à l'extrémité inférieure de la paroi d'extrémité, qui débouche à l'extérieur de la cuve.

2. Cuve selon la revendication 1,
caractérisée en outre en ce qu'
il y a un second passage (22) qui est situé dans la paroi d'extrémité (16) qui s'étend généralement horizontalement à partir de la surface intérieure de la paroi d'extrémité jusqu'au passage d'évacuation (21).

3. Cuve selon la revendication 2,
caractérisée en outre en ce que
le passage d'évacuation (21) comprend un premier tube incorporé dans la paroi d'extrémité et que ledit second passage comprend, dans ledit tube, une jonction en T qui s'étend jusqu'à la surface intérieure de ladite paroi d'extrémité (16).

4. Cuve selon la revendication 1,
caractérisée en outre en ce qu'
il y a un second passage réalisé dans la seconde paroi d'extrémité et dans la surface intérieure de celle-ci, ledit second passage s'étendant à partir de l'extrémité supérieure de ladite paroi, vers le bas, jusqu'à un emplacement situé à proximité de son extrémité inférieure.

5. Cuve selon la revendication 4,
caractérisée en outre en ce que
le second passage comprend un canal réalisé dans la seconde paroi d'extrémité et sur la surface intérieure de celle-ci, et en ce qu'un élément de recouvrement est disposé au-dessus du canal et comporte une ouverture à proximité de ses extrémités supérieure et inférieure, l'élément de recouvrement et le canal définissant le long de la surface intérieure de la paroi extérieure un passage vertical, qui est ouvert à son extrémité supérieure et à proximité du fond du compartiment.

6. Cuve selon la revendication 4,
caractérisée en outre en ce que
le second passage est défini par un tube moulé dans ladite seconde paroi d'extrémité et en-dessous de la surface de celle-ci, le tube définissant à l'intérieur de la seconde paroi d'extrémité un passage vertical qui est ouvert à son extrémité supérieure et à proximité du fond du compartiment.

7. Cuve selon la revendication 6,
dans laquelle existe dans l'extrémité inférieure du tube une multiplicité d'ouvertures, espacées les unes des autres à proximité du fond du compartiment, grâce à quoi il est possible de disperser de l'électrolyte de renouvellement le long du fond du compartiment.

8. Cuve selon la revendication 7,
caractérisée en outre en ce que
les moyens formant une multiplicité d'ouvertures sont définis par une paire de moyens formant un collecteur de tubes disposé dans ladite seconde paroi d'extrémité et à proximité de l'extrémité inférieure de celle-ci, chacun des moyens formant un collecteur de tubes comportant une pluralité d'ouvertures qui sont espacées les unes des autres et qui communiquent avec ladite cuve.

9. Cuve selon la revendication 5,
caractérisée en outre en ce que
l'autre paroi d'extrémité comporte une formation sur sa surface extérieure correspondant au canal, s'étendant à partir de son extrémité supérieure jusqu'à son extrémité inférieure, de façon telle que le canal ne diminue pas l'épaisseur relative de la paroi d'extrémité à l'emplacement dudit canal.

10. Cuve selon la revendication 9,
caractérisée en outre en ce que
le canal a une surface courbe à son extrémité inférieure orientée vers l'intérieur, l'ouverture située à proximité de l'extrémité inférieure dudit élément de recouvrement étant située en face de ladite surface courbe, l'électrolyte délivré dans ledit passage s'écoulant, de ce fait, vers le bas le long dudit canal et étant réorienté par ladite surface courbe vers l'extérieur de ladite ouverture, en vue de la répartition de l'électrolyte le long du fond du récipient.

11. Cuve selon la revendication 10,
caractérisée en outre en ce qu'
il existe un troisième passage réalisé dans la formation et s'étendant généralement horizontalement à partir de la surface intérieure de la paroi d'extrémité jusqu'au passage d'évacuation.

12. Cuve selon la revendication 11,
caractérisée en outre en ce que
le passage d'évacuation est défini par un premier tuyau incorporé dans ladite formation, et en ce que ledit second passage est constitué d'une connexion réalisée dans ledit tuyau et s'étendant jusqu'à la surface intérieure de la paroi d'extrémité.

13. Cuve selon la revendication 1,
comprenant des moyens de prolongement couplés de façon réglable à l'extrémité supérieure des moyens formant passage d'évacuation afin de rallonger lesdits moyens formant passage au-dessus du niveau de la cavité.

14. Cuve selon la revendication 13,
dans laquelle les moyens formant passage d'évacuation comprennent des moyens formant tubes incorporés dans ladite formation et s'étendant à partir de son extrémité supérieure jusqu'à son extrémité inférieure, les moyens de prolongement comprenant un petit tronçon de tube, et des moyens formant bague entourant le tronçon de tube, destinés à se mettre en prise avec l'extrémité supérieure desdits moyens formant tube afin de supporter le tronçon de tube et de jouer le rôle de joint sur la périphérie extérieure de celui-ci, le tronçon de tube augmentant la longueur des moyens formant tube au-dessus de la cavité.

15. Cuve pour électrolyte corrosif selon la revendication 2,
caractérisée en outre en ce qu'
une couche résistant à la corrosion est mise en place et en ce que celle-ci comprend une couche avant réalisée en un matériau choisi dans le groupe constitué par les résines d'esters de vinyle et par les résines de polyester, et une couche de renfort consistant en une fibre inorganique imprégnée d'un matériau choisi dans le groupe constitué par les résines d'esters de vinyle et par les résines de polyester.

16. Cuve selon la revendication 15,
caractérisée en outre en ce que
la couche de renfort contient environ 20 % à 30 % en poids de fibre et environ 70 % à 80 % en poids de résine.

17. Cuve selon la revendication 16,
caractérisée en outre en ce que
la fibre inorganique est de la fibre de verre sous forme de mat.

18. Cuve selon la revendication 16,
caractérisée en outre en ce que
le mat est constitué de brins d'une longueur de 12,7 à 50,8 mm (1/2 pouce à 2 pouces).

19. Cuve selon la revendication 17 ou 18,
caractérisée en outre en ce que
la couche avant a une épaisseur d'environ 0,25 à 0,50 mm (10 à 20 mils).

20. Cuve selon la revendication 17,
caractérisée en outre en ce que
le béton de résine synthétique comporte 10 % à 19 % en poids d'une résine choisie dans le groupe comprenant les résines d'esters de vinyle et les résines de polyester, thermo-durcissables.

21. Cuve selon la revendication 18,
caractérisée en outre en ce que la résine modifiée comporte 80 % à 90 % d'une résine choisie dans le groupe constitué de résines d'esters de vinyle et de résines de polyester, le complément consistant en un diluant, des inhibiteurs, des accélérateurs et un catalyseur.

22. Cuve selon la revendication 17,
caractérisée en outre en ce que
la silice cristalline comprend 40 % à 60 % en poids de particules d'une dimension allant de 6,35 à 3,17 mm (1/4 de pouce à 1/8 de pouce), 10 % à 25 % en poids de particules d'une dimension allant de 3,17 à 1,59 mm (1/8 de pouce à 1/16 de pouce) et 10 % à 15 % de sable fin de silice, ou poudre de silice comprenant 0,9 % à 5 % en poids de particules choisies dans le groupe constitué par des éclats de mica d'une dimension d'environ 0,39 mm (1/64 de pouce) et par des brins de fibre de verre coupés de 6,35 à 3,17 mm (1/4 de pouce à 1/8 de pouce).

23. Procédé de fabrication de la cuve selon la revendication 1,
caractérisé en ce que
ledit procédé comprend les étapes consistant à appliquer sur la surface d'un moule une couche avant constituée d'un matériau choisi dans le groupe composé des résines d'esters de vinyle et des résines de polyester, à appliquer sur ladite couche avant un mat constitué de fibres inorganiques imprégné d'un matériau choisi dans le groupe composé de résines de polyester et de résines d'esters de vinyle, à mélanger une résine thermo-durcissable choisie dans le groupe composé de résines d'esters de vinyle et de résines de polyester et une charge consistant en un aggrégat de particules, et à verser de façon continue le mélange dans un moule inversé comportant ladite couche avant et ladite couche de renfort qui délimitent les parois formant le fond, les extrémités et les côtés et à permettre audit mélange moulé de durcir les surfaces de la cuve étant en contact avec les surfaces du moule de façon à mouler des surfaces intérieures lisses.

24. Procédé selon la revendication 23,
dans lequel ladite fibre inorganique est de la fibre de verre sous forme de mat.

25. Procédé selon la revendication 23, dans lequel ledit mat est constitué de brins d'une longueur de 12,7 à 50,8 mm (1/2 pouce à 2 pouces).

26. Procédé selon la revendication 14,
dans lequel ladite couche avant a une épaisseur d'environ 0,25 à 0,50 mm (10 à 20 mils).

27. Procédé selon la revendication 26,
caractérisé en outre en ce que
la couche de renfort comporte environ 20 % à 30 % en poids de fibres et environ 70 % à 80 % en poids de résine.

28. Procédé selon la revendication 27,
caractérisé en outre en ce que
l'agrégat comprend un mélange de 80 % à 90 % en poids de particules qui ont une dimension de 6,2 à 0,79 mm (1/4 de pouce à 1/32 de pouce), 10 % à 15 % en poids de particules choisies dans le groupe consistant en sable fin de silice, ou poudre de silice et en 0,9 % à 5 % en poids de particules choisies dans le groupe consistant en des éclats de mica d'une dimension d'environ 0,39 mm (1/64 de pouce) et en des brins coupés de fibre de verre d'une dimension de 6,35 à 3,17 mm (1/4 de pouce à 1/8 de pouce).

29. Procédé selon la revendication 27,
caractérisé en outre en ce que
la résine modifiée comprend 80 % à 90 % d'une résine choisie dans le groupe composé des résines d'esters de vinyle et des résines de polyester, et un complément constitué d'un diluant, d'inhibiteurs, d'accélérateurs et d'un catalyseur.

Drawing