This invention discloses a continuous electrochemical
lithium extraction device and process from salt lakes, belonging to the field of
lithium extraction technology. The device employs a two-chamber structure, separated into a brine chamber and a
recovery chamber by a
membrane electrode assembly (MEA). By applying
voltage to both the brine chamber and the
recovery chamber on either side of the MEA,
lithium ions are inserted into the MEA in the brine chamber and extracted from the MEA in the
recovery chamber. Simultaneously, an
oxygen evolution reaction occurs at the
electrode in the brine chamber, and a
hydrogen evolution reaction occurs at the
electrode in the recovery chamber. The MEA, the two-chamber structure, and the liquid path remain fixed throughout the process, eliminating the need to move electrodes, switch chambers, or change liquid paths, thus achieving
continuous operation. Furthermore, OH- is generated at the
hydrogen evolution
electrode in the recovery chamber. ‑ Li released from the membrane electrode + This combination forms a high-value-added
lithium hydroxide solution. The device of this invention has a simple structure, is easy to operate, has a recyclable membrane electrode, high lithium-
ion selectivity, no acid or alkali consumption, and is
environmentally friendly. It is suitable for lithium extraction from
high magnesium-to-lithium ratio
salt lake brines.