Evaluating the Potential of Lithium Mining Tailings as a New Fertilizer Approach in Agriculture: Potential of Lithium Mining Tailings

The use of lithium mining tailings as fertilizer in agriculture represents an innovative approach to dealing with waste generated by the industry. Research into the characteristics and potential of new sources of fertilizers has expanded, but studies still need to be conducted to establish and recommend agronomic methods. This work aimed to evaluate the use of these residues in the cultivation of Ricinus communis L. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse at UFVJM, Campus JK, Diamantina, MG, with a randomized block design, 2x7 factorial, and four replications. The first treatment involved the application of 10% Aluminum Silicate in Calculator Furnace Fines (0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and 1.0 t/ha) + 50 % of conventional fertilizer. The second treatment consisted of seven doses of Aluminum Silicate (0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 t/ha). Using lithium residues as a conditioner and fertilizer increased the adequate cation exchange capacity (CEC) (50.5 in treatment 2) and the potential CEC in both treatments. The phytotechnical analysis indicated a significant increase in the fresh and dry weight of roots, stems, leaves, and fruits, especially at 8 and 10 t/ha doses. Lithium quantification revealed a higher concentration in treatment 1, with higher levels in the shoots and roots than in the soil.