Compact apparatus for production of iron metal by electrolysis

An apparatus for the production of iron metal through reduction of iron ore by an electrolysis reaction, the electrolysis reaction generating a gas, the apparatus comprising:

• a casing including successively:
• a terminal gas-permeable anode plate at a first end of the casing, the anode plate being connected to a source of electric power and a gas recovery part extending along an upper part of the anode plate,
• at least one bipolar electrode including successively a cathode plate, a metallic plate, a gas recovery part and a gas-permeable anode plate,
• a terminal cathode plate at the other end of the casing, the terminal cathode plate being connected to the source of electric power,
• a gap being maintained between said terminal anode plate and the cathode plate of the bipolar plate, the gap forming an electrolyte chamber,
• a further gap being maintained between the terminal cathode plate and the anode plate of the bipolar plate, the further gap forming a further electrolyte chamber,
• the casing circulating an electrolyte within the electrolyte chambers and having a supply to supply iron ore to the electrolyte chamber and further electrolytic chamber and a gas outlet in fluidic connection with the electrolyte chamber and further electrolytic chamber.