HIGH SOFTENING POINT COAL TAR PITCH AS ANODE BINDER PITCH

In recent years several authors have discussed the use of higher softening point coal tar pitches as anode binder pitches. Several drivers exist to encourage movement from the use of the traditional 110 degrees C softening point pitch as anode binder pitch to pitches with higher softening points. Some of these include the movement to higher amperage pots, a requirement for lower pitch volatiles and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons content, and the never ending search for improved anode performance. This paper will discuss several aspects of high softening point pitch including their production; physical, chemical and composition properties, and the potential for their use to improve the quality of anodes produced. In addition, the effect of their use on coal tar pitch volatile and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbon emissions will be discussed.