Anode Effect

A sudden increase in electrical voltage in an aluminium reduction cell caused by depletion of dissolved alumina in the electrolyte below a critical threshold, resulting in the formation of a gas film on the anode surface. Anode effects generate perfluorocarbon greenhouse gases (CF₄ and C₂F₆) with high global warming potential. Modern smelter operations focus on preventing anode effects through precise alumina feeding and advanced process control systems.