Lithium Extraction from Ore

Low-Temp Process for Simultaneous Li Extraction, Energy Production and Decarbonization

Overview

EVs and renewable energy are driving a surge in lithium (Li) demand. Li is mainly produced either by concentrating brines from salt lakes or by extracting it from ores, primarily α-spodumene. Brine evaporation requires vast land, long processing times, and favorable climatic conditions. Ore processing requires roasting above 1000 ℃, followed by intensive sulfuric acid leaching, leading to high energy and chemical consumption. Moreover, the co-dissolution of Si and Al impurities complicates downstream purification, increasing both economic and environmental costs.

The inventors developed a hydrothermal process that controls element behavior, enabling simultaneous Li recovery, hydrogen (H₂) production, and CO₂ mineralization at relatively low temperatures. For example, a NaHCO₃ solution with olivine enables efficient and sustained Li extraction from α-spodumene at 300 ℃. Impurities such as Si and Al are immobilized as secondary minerals, simplifying purification. Meanwhile, Fe(II) and Mg in olivine contributed to concurrent H₂ generate and CO₂ mineralization.

Efficient Li Leaching from α-Spodumene

Product Application

・Lithium production from ore

IP Data

IP No.　 ： JP2025-194429　
Inventor ： WATANABE Noriaki, WANG Jiajie
keyword ： Lithium, Li, Lithium production, Spodumene, Decarbonization