Electrochemical Cell Designs for Producing Iron Metal from Oxide Powders and Salt Water

Case ID:
UO-24-026
Web Published:
1/2/2026
Description:

1. Technology Overview 

The invention presents an innovative electrochemical cell design for producing iron metal from iron oxide powders and salt water. This technology leverages low-cost and abundant raw materials to produce high-purity iron, while co-producing valuable byproducts such as chlorine and sodium hydroxide. The process is highly efficient, scalable, and environmentally friendly, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional iron production methods. Currently in the development stage, this technology holds significant potential for cross-industry applications in steel manufacturing, chemical production, and renewable energy. 

2. Key Features and Benefits 

  • Cost-Effective Production: Utilizes low-cost and abundant raw materials, reducing overall production costs. 

  • High Efficiency: Achieves high selectivity and efficiency in iron production. 

  • Scalability: Modular design allows for easy scaling to industrial levels. 

  • Environmental Benefits: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional methods. 

  • Co-Production of Byproducts: Produces valuable byproducts such as chlorine and sodium hydroxide, adding economic value. 

3. Applications and Market Focus 

  • Steel Manufacturing: Enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of steel production. 

  • Chemical Industry: Providing a cost-effective source of chlorine and sodium hydroxide. 

  • Renewable Energy: Supporting sustainable materials for renewable energy projects. 

  • Environmental Solutions: Offering a low-carbon alternative for industrial processes. 

  • Research and Development: Enabling further innovation in electrochemical processes and materials science. 

4. Commercial Advantages 

  • Strategic Benefits: Offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution for iron production. 

  • Implementation Advantages: Simplifies the production process and reduces environmental impact. 

  • Market Positioning: Positions the technology as a key enabler in the green technology sector. 

  • Competitive Edge: Provides a unique and efficient method for producing iron and valuable byproducts. 

5. Partnership Opportunities 

  • Licensing Partners: Ideal for companies in steel manufacturing, chemical production, and renewable energy. 

  • Cross-Sector Benefits: Offers advantages to multiple industries, including steel, chemicals, and green technology. 

  • Market Opportunities: Addresses diverse market needs, from sustainable steel production to chemical manufacturing. 

  • Collaborative Development: Potential for joint ventures with research institutions and industrial partners to further enhance the technology. 

Patent Information:
For Information, Contact:
Christine Gramer
Associate Director
University of Oregon
cgramer@uoregon.edu
Inventors:
Paul Kempler
Anastasiia Konovalova
Keywords:
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