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Abstract

A method for producing aluminum and a method for producing a graphite electrode for a carbothermic reduction furnace, in which aluminum is produced by carbothermic reduction of alumina, render the graphite electrode substantially gas-impermeable. The graphite electrode is consumed during furnace operation and electrode columns connected by graphite pins are fed continuously fed in from the top into the furnace. The coating of the electrode withstands a temperature of up to 300.degree. C. and more over a period of several hours without oxidation. Since the coating enters the furnace compartment at least partially, it is configured so that it will not contaminate the hot melt. That is, the chemistry of the coating materials is similar to the ingredients of the overall reaction or, at a minimum, the amount of foreign elements is very low. The coating is provided so that it does not increase the electrical contact resistance at the connection between the electrode columns and the electrode holding clamps. Where the electrode inlet area is cooled by water, the coating is insoluble in water.

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First Claim