Invention Reference Number
Description
The patented method involves mixing an aluminum-containing sorbent, such as aluminum hydroxide or aluminum oxide, with a lithium sulfate aqueous solution to form a precursor mixture. This mixture is then heated to between 50-200°C, leading to the selective formation of a solid lithium-aluminum complex while leaving other salts in solution. The process may further include a step to recover isolated lithium salt by heating the lithium-aluminum complex in water, facilitating the transfer of lithium salt back into solution and producing aluminum hydroxide solid, which can be reused in the process. This innovation provides a less costly and more straightforward solution for lithium recovery from aqueous solutions, notably in the presence of competing ions like sodium and potassium.
Benefits
- High selectivity for lithium, even in the presence of other alkali metal ions.
- Cost-effective and efficient process suitable for various lithium-containing aqueous solutions.
Applications and Industries
- Lithium-ion battery manufacturing and recycling.
- Production of high-purity lithium for pharmaceuticals, ceramics, and lubricating greases.
Contact
To learn more about this technology, email partnerships@ornl.gov or call 865-574-1051.
