Sorbents for lithium recovery from sulfate leachates

Schematics of direct lithium extraction from lithium sulfate-containing leachate solution using an earth-abundant sorbent material followed by the delithiation process.
Schematics of direct lithium extraction from lithium sulfate-containing leachate solution using an earth-abundant sorbent material followed by the delithiation process.

CMI researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory conducted the activity for this highlight

Innovation 
Sorbents to selectively extract lithium from leachates in a wide range of pH conditions and methods to delithiate the loaded sorbents to achieve a process cycle.

Achievement
Direct lithium extraction has been demonstrated, and a non-provisional patent application entitled, “Selective Extraction of Lithium from Lithium Sulfate Aqueous Solution” has been filed.

Significance and Impact

  • Enables direct extraction of lithium from brines and leachates under a wide range of pH conditions with extraction of up to full recovery of lithium.
  • Sorbents are based on earth-abundant commercially available materials.

Hub Target Addressed 
Recovery and Conversion of Critical Minerals into High-Value End Products. Win industry adoption of a technology for the source-diversification of lithium.