SOW FTIR_3.7.2025.docx

APPENDIX B – Statement of Work

Description:

This project involves the acquisition of a process gas analysis unit capable of simultaneously measuring carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), and tetrafluoromethane (CF4) in a research setting focused on the production of light rare earth metals, specifically neodymium and didymium, via electrowinning. The process operates at a high temperature of 1050°C using a molten fluoride electrolyte, resulting in the generation of dry process gases. These gases, primarily consisting of argon or nitrogen with small amounts of oxygen, are captured post-filtration without any pressure, necessitating a sample draw mechanism for the analyzer. The analyzer must output data in a 4-20 mA format compatible with data collection devices and process control computers. CF4 concentrations are expected to range from 0.5 to 200 ppm, with occasional peaks up to 2000 ppm, requiring high precision at lower concentrations. CO and CO2 levels are anticipated to be between 10% and 30%, maintaining a CO/CO2 ratio of approximately three. The gas composition is regulated through controlled mixing of oxygen with nitrogen or argon using mass flow meters and valves. This setup aims to enhance the precision and reliability of gas measurements in the electrowinning process.

APPENDIX B – Statement of Work

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Contents

Background In the process of electrolyzing rare earth oxides within a fluoride bath using a carbon anode, gases such as CO, CO2, and CF4 are produced in varying quantities. Managing the Boudouard shift reaction is crucial to prevent carbon soot from forming in the reactor's headspace, which is essential for producing high-quality metal. To achieve this, the ratio of nitrogen or argon to air on the inlet side can be adjusted using flow meters. Accurate measurement of CO, CO2, and CF4 production is necessary to effectively control the process and prevent the anode effect.

Objective Argonne National Laboratory is looking for an FTIR or similar technology capable of measuring gases such as CO, CO2, and CF4 using a single instrument. This instrument should generate a 4-20mA signal, which will be transmitted to a data collection system. The collected data will be used for historical analysis and to control the power supplied by the DC power supply and the feeder.

Technical Requirements Must measure the following gases: CF4 in the 0-200 ppm range (with focus on the lower end of the scale), CO, CO2 in the 1-30 % range. Ratio of CO/CO2 is estimated at 3:1. CO and CO2 ranges are 10 to 30 % Precision of 1 % is all that is needed.

Must include a sample pump to overcome the internal pressure drop since the samples are generated at atmospheric pressure.

Gas must be presented to the unit at 30 C, at 1 atm.

No sample gas will be provided for calibration. ANL will buy the calibration gas.

The instrument must be suitable for mounting in a 19-inch rack, with indoor temperatures ranging 19 to 25 C, room temperature 10-30%.

The data generated from the instrument must be presented in a 4-20mA form the computer control system, for data logging.

Instrument must meet a required response time of two seconds.

Instrument must operate with a power supply that meets the facility’s electrical infrastructure: 230 Volt three phase, 120 Volt single phase, and 208 Volt single phase. The preferred option is 120 V single phase, followed by 208 single phase, and finally 230 Volt three phase.

Instrument must be compatible for connection with a standard euotherm or NI unit via a 4-20mA signal.

Contractor must have regional / national service provider for prompt warranty repairs or maintenance requests.

Tasks Provide drawings, execute facility testing or capability reports Manufacture FTIR unit Deliverables, Timing, and Documentation Deliverables FTIR Instrument to measure CO, CO2 and CF4 simultaneously Demonstration of spectra on instrument Timing Process electrolysis cell should be completed in 15 weeks Documentation UL listing or NTRL certification Warranty statement for 1 year, repair service and parts Quality Assurance Calibration method must be provided along with necessary supplies for performing routine maintenance and calibration Environmental Safety and Health No installation will be included with this procurement Place of Performance Delivery from the contractor will be to Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 S Cass Ave., Lemont, IL 60439—Building 46 Unit will operate at Argonne National Laboratory, Building 369 Hibay Period of Performance Delivery must be made in 15 weeks or less from Purchase Order image1.jpeg