Direct lithium extraction using liquid membranes

Abstract

Direct lithium extraction using liquid membranes is the technology that significantly increases the sustainability of lithium production from brines. Thanks to the latent chemical energy stored in the brine, the liquid membrane ensures the selective and active transport of lithium in the form of the initial Li+Cl- pair, followed by the transformation of lithium chloride into lithium carbonate. After lithium extraction, the brine maintains its pH, is free of chemical contamination, and can be returned entirely to the salt flat.