Researchers at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering have made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of lithium extraction. As the demand for lithium in electric vehicle batteries continues to rise, the current methods of extracting this valuable mineral from rock ores or brines have proven to be slow, energy-intensive, and environmentally damaging.
In a new study published in Nature Communications, Professor Chong Liu and his team have developed a more efficient method for extracting lithium from dilute sources such as seawater, groundwater, and flowback water leftover from fracking and offshore drilling. This innovative approach could revolutionize the way lithium is extracted and help close the gap between demand and production.
The key to this new method lies in the use of iron phosphate particles that can selectively pull lithium out of dilute liquids while leaving other ions, such as sodium, behind. By optimizing the size and shape of these particles, the researchers were able to dramatically increase the efficiency of the extraction process.
“This new method has the potential to greatly broaden the sources of lithium and make the extraction process faster and more environmentally friendly,” said Gangbin Yan, a Ph.D. student and first author of the study. “Our findings could have a significant impact on the electric vehicle market and the renewable energy sector.”
With global lithium production on the rise, innovative solutions like this one will be crucial in meeting the growing demand for this essential mineral. The research team hopes that their findings will pave the way for a more sustainable and efficient lithium extraction industry in the years to come.
