A breakthrough in lithium extraction technology could reduce costs and environmental impact.
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| Scientists have developed a new method for extracting lithium that is more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. Image Courtesy: Kumpan Electric |
Stanford, California, USA --- October 14, 2024:
A team of Stanford University scientists has developed a new technology that could revolutionize lithium extraction, a critical process for the production of batteries used in electric vehicles and other electronic devices. The new method, described in a report by Anthropocene Magazine, offers a more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional extraction techniques.
Currently, lithium extraction from brines involves evaporating salts in massive ponds, a process that is both expensive and time-consuming. The new technology, developed by Yi Cui's research group, uses electrodialysis to selectively extract lithium from brines. This process involves passing the brine through a lithium-selective membrane using an applied electric field.
The researchers' system demonstrated continuous lithium extraction for over 100 hours with 100% lithium selectivity and significantly reduced energy consumption compared to traditional methods. This could potentially reduce the cost of extracted lithium by up to 60%.
The development of this new technology is particularly significant given the growing demand for lithium batteries in the electric vehicle market. By offering a more sustainable and cost-effective extraction method, it could help to secure the supply of lithium and accelerate the transition to clean energy.
"The benefits to efficiency and cost innate to our approach make it a promising alternative to current extraction techniques and a potential game changer for the lithium supply chain," said Yi Cui, the lead researcher.