Per: CAROLINE rODRIGUES DOSA SANTOS BRIGIDO (CENTRO DE TECNOLOGIA MINERAL), Gabriely Fornazier Brunhara (CETEM), Paulo Fernando Almeida Braga (cetem)
Abstract:
The lithium compounds market is on the rise due to increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries, which are widely used in electric vehicles as well as electronics. Lithium plays a fundamental role in the production of these batteries, giving them better performance properties and a longer charging life. Given this scenario, lithium extraction processes, both in rocks and in brines, have been the subject of continuous development and improvement. This work sets out to provide a review of these technologies, offering a solid foundation for future research and technological advancements in extractive metallurgy. In the case of brines, solar evaporation, ion exchange, and direct lithium extraction techniques were discussed. Regarding the extraction of lithium from ores, the chlorination, alkaline, and acid processes were addressed. These investigations have the potential to boost the development of more efficient and sustainable methods for extracting lithium, thus contributing to the feasibility of cleaner and more renewable energy sources.