Metal Extraction using Novel Nanoscale Polyoxometalates 2024-076.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab have developed a polyoxometalate (POM)-based system designed for the selective removal and recovery of critical metals, specifically lithium and magnesium, from nontraditional brine sources. The POM-based system demonstrates a remarkable selectivity ratio for Li+ and Mg2+ of over 1000, rapid separation in under one minute, and facile regeneration of the POM structure, allowing for cost effective separation and recovery.
Inventors: Chaochao Dun, Linfeng Chen, and Jeffrey Urban
Contact: Shanshan Li, shanshanli@lbl.gov
New Low-temperature Process for Extracting Lithium from Alpha Spodumene 2024-019.
Scientists at Berkeley Lab have developed a technology that allows for the extraction of lithium from alpha spodumene at temperatures of about 600 ℃ to 800 ℃, less energy intensive than conventional methods that require heating up to 1000 ℃ before acid leaching. In addition, it replaces the sulfuric acid or soda ash used for leaching in current processes with inexpensive and abundant reactants.
Inventor: Michael Whittaker
Contact: Sebastian Ainslie, sainslie@lbl.gov
Electrochemical Leaching of Lithium from Clays 2021-166.
Scientists at Berkeley Lab have developed a new electrochemical based lithium extraction method that can eject lithium ions from lithium rich clays to produce a Li+ rich brine. In contrast to current lithium extraction from clay, this electrochemical mining method can eliminate the need for acid leaching, sulfate kiln roasting, and beneficiation, leading to a reduction in water usage and a more environmentally friendly lithium extraction process. The novel electrochemical approach also enables a path towards subsurface electrochemical mining.
Inventors: Andrew Haddad, Robert Kostecki
Contact: Sebastian Ainslie, sainslie@lbl.gov
Read more about Berkeley Lab’s work regarding lithium extraction and California’s Salton Sea region for domestic lithium reserves.