Review of technology for lithium production from mineral raw materials

Abstract

Rapid global electrification, nuclear power expansion, and nuclear energy in general will undoubtedly increase the demand for lithium. This article provides a detailed analysis of existing technologies for extracting lithium from various natural resources: spodumene, lepidolite, and sea salt, among other minerals. The technologies are summarised by the feedstock processing method. The article evaluates the various methods' economic feasibility, complexity, and technological viability. It also discusses promising methods for extracting lithium from low-grade resources that may transition from off-balance to on-balance categories. This article also presents a “future outlook”, highlighting research gaps, possible technological improvements, and sustainability considerations.