Yes, there are new technologies that are significantly reducing water consumption in lithium extraction, mainly through Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) methods. These innovations aim to address the environmental impacts associated with traditional lithium extraction processes.
Key Technologies and Features
- Stanford’s Electrochemical Method:
- This technology uses electricity to move lithium through a solid-state electrolyte membrane, increasing lithium concentration in a solution.
- It uses less than 10% of the electricity required by traditional methods and offers nearly 100% lithium selectivity.
- Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE):
- DLE technologies are revolutionizing lithium extraction by reducing water usage, carbon emissions, and time.
- Companies like Summit Nanotech claim up to 50% reduced emissions compared to traditional methods.
- Lilac Solutions, another DLE innovator, uses only 10-20 cubic meters of water per metric ton of lithium carbonate equivalent, significantly less than traditional evaporitic ponds.
- Lithium Harvest’s Patented DLE Technology:
- This approach transforms wastewater and geothermal brine into high-purity lithium, leveraging existing infrastructure to minimize ecological impact.
- It recycles over 90% of the water used, making it highly efficient and environmentally responsible.
These advancements not only reduce water consumption but also aim to make lithium extraction more sustainable and efficient.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/are-there-any-new-technologies-reducing-water-consumption-in-lithium-extraction/
