The importance of lithium (Li) ore lies in its critical role as a key raw material for the production of lithium-ion batteries, which are widely used in electric vehicles (EVs), energy storage systems (ESS), and portable electronics.
What is a promising raw material for lithium production?
A promising raw material for the lithium production is a mica concentrate obtaining during the enrichment of ores from the Etykinskoye deposit (Eastern Transbaikalia, Russia). Preliminary studies (Egorov et al., 2016) showed that concentrate containing ~2.5% Li 2 O can be obtained by flotation from ores with ~0.78% Li 2 O.
The market for lithium (Li) ore has been rapidly growing in recent years, primarily driven by the increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems (ESS) as the world transitions towards cleaner energy sources.
Is lithium a key resource?
This article reviews sources, extraction and production, uses, and recovery and recycling, all of which are important aspects when evaluating lithium as a key resource. First, it describes the estimated reserves and lithium production from brine and pegmatites, including the material and energy requirements.
How is lithium sourced?
For instance, lithium can be sourced from hard rock ore deposits, such as spodumene and pegmatite, through processes akin to conventional mining operations. These alternative sources contribute to diversifying the lithium supply chain, promoting resilience and sustainability in the rapidly evolving world of lithium extraction.
The article finishes with a forecast on the future demand of lithium for batteries of electric vehicles. The major sources of lithium are contained in brine lake deposits (also referred as salars 1) and pegmatites. Brines with high lithium (about 0.3%) concentration are located in Salars of Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina.
A possible way to increase its production is by its recovery from batteries, which is still low and has still to be improved. Optimizing the cycle of lithium by improving its recovery and recycling will help lithium to remain a viable source over the long term.