Hydrochloric acid-assisted volatilization of alkalis from refractory materials
An innovative method using hydrochloric acid to selectively volatilize alkalis from refractory materials, forming volatile chlorides captured via ceramic filters and water-scrubbers. This process aims to enhance the efficiency of alkali removal, applicable in industrial settings.
Overview
This solution introduces a novel method to enhance the removal of alkalis from refractory materials through hydrochloric acid-assisted volatilization. At elevated temperatures, hydrochloric acid reacts with alkalis, forming volatile chlorides such as NaCl and KCl. These chlorides are then captured using high-temperature ceramic filters and water-scrubbers, providing an efficient means of alkali removal. This method is particularly beneficial for industries dealing with materials containing alkali aluminates, improving both processing efficiency and environmental compliance.
Technical specifications
- Chemical reactions: Na2Al2O4 + 2HCl = 2NaCl(g) + Al2O3 + H2O(g); K2Al2O4 + 2HCl = 2KCl(g) + Al2O3 + H2O(g).
- Process steps:
- Introduce low-concentration HCl gas into a hot packed bed (500-700°C) to react with alkalis.
- Pass the hot gas through a ceramic filter (~250-300°C) to condense and capture chlorides.
- Use a water-scrubber to remove remaining chlorides from cooled flue gas.
- Conduct process integration and techno-economic analysis.
- Materials: Suitable for refractory materials containing MgO and Al2O3.
Technology readiness level
Currently, this technology is at TRL 4, having been validated in laboratory environments. The next steps include further parametric studies, process integration, and techno-economic analysis to optimize and evaluate the commercial viability of the solution.
About Monash University, Melbourne
Monash University is a comprehensive public research university and one of Australia’s largest, known for scale, interdisciplinarity, and an applied orientation. Its Melbourne-based technology precinct brings together university laboratories, pilot-scale and prototyping suites, and company R&D groups alongside government research organizations to enable co-development and rapid iteration. Integration with a major hospital network supports clinical trials and translation, while structured industry placements and doctoral partnerships create a robust talent pipeline for corporate R&D. Research is backed by competitive funding from the Australian Research Council, the National Health and Medical Research Council, and state and federal programs that incentivize industry collaboration. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startup formation, with pathways to incubation and investment within the precinct.
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