RI 5182 A Qualitative Evaluation Of Several Electrolytes For Electrorefining Bismuth ? Summary

Several experiments have been carried out in efforts to evaluate qualitatively a variety of electrolytes for refining bismuth. Most extensive work was done with the basic tartrate, hydrochloric acid, and hydrofluosilicic acid electrolytes. Deposits that are smooth and adherent can be obtained from these three electrolytes if low cathode current densities are employed. All three electrolytes were effective in purifying crude bismuth considerably, with additional purification indicated in each instance by a reelectrolysis step. With the basic tartrate electrolyte best results were obtained when the electrolyte was at 40° C, and contained at least 100 grams of bismuth per liter, An apparent disadvantage was depletion of bismuth from this electrolyte, causing the deposits to become spongy and nonadherent.