Work

Direct lithium extraction using Australian spodumene refinery residue: a waste to value approach

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Lithium extraction from hard rocks generates a substantial amount of solid waste, i.e., leached spodumene residue. This work contributes to developing a characteristic understanding of this waste residue and evaluating its potential application in direct lithium extraction. Firstly, the residue was comprehensively analysed through advanced characterisation techniques. Subsequently, the material was applied for direct lithium extraction from simulated brine, achieving an optimal adsorption capacity of 14.25 mg·g -1 at 90 °C and pH 12.43. Mechanistic and kinetic studies revealed an ion-exchange process (H + /Li + ), facilitated by the porous channels inside the structure. Further investigations into competing cations and reusability revealed a selectivity order of Li⁺ > Na⁺ > K⁺ > Mg 2+ , with respective separation factors of 10.94, 12.40, and 16.84, underscoring the material’s strong potential for practical brine processing. This waste-to-value approach not only minimises the environmental concerns but also enhances resource utilisation across the overall lithium economy.

Source: Resources Conservation and Recycling

DOI: 10.1016/j.resconrec.2025.108574

Authors: Abdul Hannan Asif, Chao Li, Hazel Lim, Rajesh Sharma, Hongqi Sun

Institution: The University of Western Australia

Language: English

Topic: Extraction and Separation Processes

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $5,270