Flow Cell Membrane Cycle for Low-Energy Lithium Extraction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current lithium extraction methods, such as hard rock mining and solar evaporation, are energy-intensive, environmentally damaging, and economically unfeasible for low-concentration lithium resources, leading to unsustainable energy demand and greenhouse gas emissions.

Innovation Solution

A membrane system comprising a solid electrolyte layer and a sorbent layer configured for selective lithium extraction, utilizing a NASICON-type solid electrolyte and sorbent particles like Al(OH)3, LiAlO2, and LiCuO2, with an anti-fouling layer to maintain conductivity and selectivity, enabling continuous extraction from low-concentration brines.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If conventional critical mineral extraction systems are used to separate alkali metals from feed solution, then lithium extraction can be achieved, but energy consumption increases unsustainably

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelithium extraction efficiencyVSAvoidenergy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the fundamental parameters of the extraction system by using ion-selective membranes with specific conductivities and sorbent materials with tailored adsorption properties, enabling extraction at lower energy inputs compared to conventional methods

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs composite membrane structures combining ion-selective layers with sorbent materials, creating a multi-functional system that achieves both selective lithium extraction and energy efficiency through the synergistic properties of the composite materials

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Use of energy by moving object

If solar evaporation method is used for lithium extraction, then energy consumption is reduced, but water consumption and land area requirements increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy consumptionVSAvoidwater consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical evaporation process with an electrochemical extraction system using ion-selective membranes and sorbents, eliminating the need for large-scale water evaporation while maintaining efficient lithium recovery

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If ion-selective solid electrolyte membrane is used for lithium extraction, then extraction efficiency improves, but membrane fouling from impurities reduces conductivity over time

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelithium extraction efficiencyVSAvoidmembrane conductivity stability

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a protective coating layer as an intermediary between the feed solution and the ion-selective membrane, preventing impurities from directly contacting and fouling the membrane while still allowing lithium ion transport

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary separation of lithium ions from impurities using the ion-selective membrane before the impurities can cause fouling, maintaining membrane conductivity throughout the extraction process

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The system achieves efficient lithium extraction with high selectivity and stability, maintaining 80% conductivity after exposure to impurities, and can concentrate lithium to 20 g/L from brines containing less than 200 ppm lithium, reducing environmental impact and energy consumption.

Implementation Method 1

a solid electrolyte layer, wherein the solid electrolyte layer is configured to be conductive to an ion of a predetermined alkali metal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectIon conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

a sorbent layer configured to adsorb the predetermined alkali metal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAdsorption: Adsorption

Data Source

PatentUS20250313978A1Energy-efficient flow cell system with self-sustaining power cycle

Publication Date: 2025.10.09 LYTEN INC

AI summary

The present disclosure introduces an innovative green flow cell system for ion extraction and reclamation that significantly reduces energy consumption and environmental impact. The system utilizes at least two cationic selective membranes configured for multiple ion species and is arranged with a unique power supply capable of providing initial startup energy, powering ion extraction, and reclaiming energy during ion reclamation processes. This innovative self-sustaining energy cycle allows the system to operate with minimal external power input. Unlike conventional ion extraction systems, this innovative solution overcomes high energy consumption, limited scalability, and single-directional operation. The system's dual cationic selective membranes, combined with the regeneration of the specific active materials, address the traditional inefficiencies, enabling unprecedented energy efficiency, operational flexibility, and high product purities. By integrating these and other cutting-edge features, this system surpasses existing technologies in efficiency and versatility, opening new possibilities for sustainable ion extraction and purification across a wide range of applications.