Review of Direct Lithium Extraction Methods: Recent Advances and Outlook

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have become the prominent energy storage technology because of their high specific energy, longer lifespan, and excellent efficiency. Traditional lithium extraction processes are energy intensive and time-consuming. Direct lithium extraction (DLE) methods provide a more sustainable and efficient alternative. This review offers a comprehensive overview of lithium-ion battery resources and direct lithium extraction methods. The detailed discussion of the DLE methods, which include adsorption, ion exchange, solvent extraction, membranes separation, and electro-chemical systems is presented. A comprehensive analysis of the recent technological advances of the direct lithium extraction processes in terms of technology readiness levels, and commercial potential is reported. The advantages and the technical challenges of the DLE methods are also reported. Finally, the review outlines the artificial intelligence outlook of the DLE processes. The review aims to provide deeper insights into the limitations and the opportunities of DLE methods towards crucial future research efforts for lithium-ion batteries advancements.