TECHNOLOGY

Lithium Mining Method

Lithium mining primarily employs three main methods: traditional hard rock mining, evaporation, and Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) processes. In hard rock mining, lithium-rich minerals are excavated from underground deposits and subsequently processed to extract lithium. Evaporation techniques involve pumping lithium-rich brine from underground aquifers to the surface. The brine is then concentrated through natural evaporation or artificial means, such as solar evaporation ponds.

Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) processes directly extract lithium from brine sources, such as underground aquifers, using advanced technologies like selective ion exchange or membrane filtration. These methods concentrate and extract lithium from the brine, meeting the growing demand for this crucial element, essential in manufacturing batteries for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage solutions.

*Source: Global Metals & Mining Direct Lithium Extraction, Goldman Sachs (April 2023)

Direct Lithium Extraction ("DLE")

Embark on a comprehensive exploration of lithium extraction methods as we compare the traditional evaporation process with the Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technique. Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) is a proven cutting-edge technology.

DLE shortens processing time to hours to days compared to the traditional evaporation method, which takes years.
DLE boasts a higher lithium recovery rate exceeding 90%.
DLE is feasible wherever lithium-containing water exists. Additionally, it does not require a large-scale brine salt farm.
DLE is not affected by weather conditions for brine evaporation, as it utilizes flowing water itself.
DLE does not require a large amount of water to process lithium. With short processing times and adaptable facilities, DLE emerges as

an environmentally friendly and efficient option for lithium extraction.

Direct Lithium Extraction Clasification

Adsorption: Adsorption functions as a selective process, wherein a specialized material attracts and retains lithium ions, enabling their separation from the solution constituents during the direct lithium extraction procedure.
Ion Exchange: Ion exchange entails a controlled exchange mechanism, wherein lithium ions are selectively replaced from a solid medium with other ions present in the solution. This method contributes to the isolation of highly pure lithium.
Solvent Extraction: Solvent extraction serves as a strategic separation technique, involving the dissolution of lithium in one solvent and subsequent transfer to another. This meticulous process facilitates the creation of a refined lithium solution within the direct lithium extraction framework.
Membrane: Membranes, acting as precision filters, permit the passage of lithium ions while impeding the transit of undesired elements. This integral role ensures the attainment of high purity levels in the final lithium product during the direct lithium extraction process.