Lithium Processing in the Past and for the Future

Lithium is a key element in the transition to carbon-free power generation. Over the last decade or so, there has been a surge in extracting lithium from its diverse natural sources, driven by a growing gap between its demand and production. Traditionally, lithium is extracted from salar brines; however, as the demand for this commodity has increased, processing from pegmatites and other types of brines and lithium-bearing clays is becoming more important. This paper revisits current technologies available to produce battery-grade lithium carbonate from diverse sources. We particularly discuss clay processing and the environmental issues associated with processing lithium from its natural sources. Plant data is required to make accurate environmental assessments concerning the processing of clay minerals. Uncertainties on the actual amount of lithium reserves exist, and it is unknown if, with the current data available, it is possible to close the gap between demand and supply of lithium.