Practical Applications of Electrochemical Processes

Electroforming. The electroforming of W-Co or W-Co-Ni parts, which can be used in space vehicles and aircraft, is rather complicated and comprises the following steps mechanical processing of an Al matrix, degreasing, zincate treatment, Ag plating, electrodeposition of the alloy, chemical removal of the matrix, and heat treatment [3.91]. 

Electrolytic Dissolution. The electrolytic dissolution of tungsten and tungsten alloy scrap in alkaline media (NaOH, Na2C03, NH3, (NH4)2C03) is used technically to recycle tungsten into the APT production (see Section 5.2.3.6.). 

Production and Refining. The production of tungsten or its refining via electrolysis of molten salts, although technically possible, has never gained greater importance. 

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At all stages of the development of electrochemistry, an intimate connection existed between the development of theoretical concepts and the discovery of solutions for a practical application of electrochemical processes and phenomena. Theoretical investigations have been stimulated by the practical use of various electrochemical phenomena and processes, and the theoretical concepts that were developed have in turn contributed signihcantly to the development of applied electrochemistry. 

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