In search of low cost titanium: the Fray Farthing Chen (FFC) Cambridge process

Abstract

This article explores the Fray Farthing Chen (FFC) Cambridge Process, a novel method for the electrochemical de-oxidation of metal oxides in molten salt, discovered at the University of Cambridge in 1997. The process was hailed as a highly promising, potentially low cost, novel method for the production of titanium metal direct from its oxides. The article should inform researchers in the field of some of the challenges in the commercialisation of a novel, high profile process involving multiple stakeholders. The author, former senior process engineer at British Titanium Plc, the company originally tasked with commercialising titanium production via the FFC Cambridge process, reviews the latest literature and discusses past and present progress in the pursuit of low cost titanium metal via this process. Topics explored include the history of the process, attempts at commercialisation, NASA’s alternative application, and present status of the process.