CMI researchers from Ames National Laboratory conducted the activity for this highlight
Innovation
Mechanochemical process to extract >85% of Lithium available in domestic hard-rock ore diversifying lithium supplies.
Achievement
The patented MELLT (Mechanochemical Extraction of Lithium at Low Temperatures) technology achieved 63-46% lithium extraction at the 0.5-1kg scale (respectively) directly from α-spodumene, eliminating energy-intensive decrepitation step and operating at room temperature, a significantly milder condition compared to conventional methods.
Significance and Impact
- Eliminate the high-temperature thermal-decrepitation step.
- Replace harsh acid/alkaline solutions with mild alternatives.
- Reduce energy costs with viable alternative to traditional energy- and waste-intensive methods.
Hub Target Addressed
Recovery or purification processes to expand U.S. lithium production.
