2. Mass Balance

This chapter shows the meaning of the Principal Equation for the aluminum production and explains the use of molar masses (formerly atomic and molecular weights) and of moles. Furthermore it derives the equations to calculate the theoretical productions and consumptions for the participants of the electrolysis reactions.
Pearson and Waddington have assumed that the loss of current efficiency is due to the reaction of aluminum with the anodic carbon dioxide. The expressions for theoretical productions and consumptions are modified according to the reoxidation reaction with Pearson and Waddington's assumption.
The Ideal Gas Equation connects the pressure, the volume and temperature of an ideal gas. Expressions for the electrolytic production of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide in cubic meter are given. The Pearson-Waddington Equation relates the composition of the anode gas to current efficiency. You use this equation determine the current efficiency of laboratory and technical electrolysis cells from the CO/CO₂ ratio of the anode gas.
The conventional operating figures are given to assess the technical efficiency of a pot room.