How does direct electrowinning collect titanium sponge on a cathode?

Direct electrowinning is an experimental method for producing titanium metal that differs from traditional chemical reduction techniques like the Kroll process.

In this process, titanium is extracted directly from titanium tetrachloride (${\text{TiCl}}_4$) within fused chloride salt baths. As the electrolytic process occurs, titanium sponge collects on a steel cathode, while chlorine gas is simultaneously released at the carbon anode.1

While this method offers a potentially simplified approach to production, it faces significant technical and economic challenges. Specifically, the process requires the use of high-melting-point salts and must be conducted within a strictly maintained inert environment to prevent contamination.1