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Plibrico Supports ELYSIS in Launch of World’s First Zero-Carbon Aluminum Smelter Technology

According to the International Aluminum Institute, for each ton of aluminum produced, approximately 11,5 t of carbon is released. The groundbreaking smelter technology from ELYSIS, protected by Plibrico refractory linings, represents an innovative new strategy for aluminum processors to reduce their carbon footprint and address global climate change in the drive to a Net Zero carbon future.  Plibrico nonwetting refractories protect the linings of ELYSIS smelting units, acting as a thermal barrier between the liquid aluminum and the walls of the vessel, therefore preventing corrosion while ensuring maximum heat retention for greater energy efficiencies. During development, Plibrico collaborated closely with ELYSIS in identifying the critical refractory specifications required for safe, long-term operation in temperatures approaching 1000 °C. Research highlighted the need for a refractory that provided: ·      Superior resistance to aluminum wetting and penetration ·      Chemically stable, with no silica diffusion ·      Durability and dependability, field tested ·      Excellent thermal shock resistance ·      Outstanding thermal storage capacity Plibrico’s alliance with ELYSIS extended beyond designing the lining specifications and providing the refractory materials, to include casting lining sections, and meticulously installing the linings inside the equipment at Plibrico’s Salem, Ohio location. Supported by Plibrico refractories, ELYSIS is ramping up production to a commercial scale at its Industrial Research and Development Center in Saguenay/CA. Apple has used the first batch of its commercial-purity, low-carbon aluminum in the new iPhone SE. In addition, Audi/DE has announced plans to manufacture the wheels for its e-tron GT sports car using a combination of ELYSIS aluminum and Alcoa low-carbon EcoLum™ aluminum.  “Plibrico is proud to have supplied enabling refractory technology to ELYSIS to help it lay a pathway for the aluminum industry to a more sustainable future. ELYSIS’ disruptive technology has the potential to transform the way the aluminum sector — and the world — is addressing the climate crisis. Plibrico refractory materials will now literally ‘touch’ all users of Apple IPhone SE and Audi e-tron GT sports cars,” said Brad Taylor, President and CEO of the Plibrico Company.  Brad Taylor continued: “For decades Alcoa has relied upon Plibrico durable nonwetting refractories to protect its furnaces and aluminum thermal processing equipment. We are honored that when Alcoa’s lead engineers needed refractory advice for this bold, ambitious project, they approached Plibrico for the answer.” ELYSIS technology is on track to be commercially available by 2024, both as a ‘drop-in’ replacement to retrofit existing aluminum smelters and in the building of new units. Along with decarbonizing key parts of the aluminum value chain, ELYSIS processing technology will reduce operating costs of aluminum smelters while increasing capacity. United with its partners and customers, Plibrico continues to innovate towards a more sustainable future and net-zero goal, included is its active involvement with ELYSIS and similar technologies that use clean energy sources and apply emission management. The goal of net-zero emissions can only be reached if industry reduces its carbon emissions to help offset the dangerous and harmful effects it has on our environment. Plibrico will continue to do its part by providing durable refractory solutions that safeguard zero-carbon technologies. www.plibrico.com


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