Solvothermal Lithium Extraction Using Polyol Solvents
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lithium extraction methods from lithium-containing materials, such as lithium-ion batteries and ores, are economically and environmentally costly due to the use of hazardous chemicals, high energy requirements, and the need for multiple steps, especially in processes like hydrometallurgy and pyrometallurgy, which also result in the non-selective dissolution of other metals.
Innovation Solution
A solvothermal process using a polyol solvent and carbonate to selectively extract lithium from materials containing lithium and other metals, such as cobalt, nickel, and manganese, without the need for hazardous chemicals or additional waste treatment, involving steps like solvothermal treatment, separation, and optional isolation of lithium carbonate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If hydrometallurgy or pyrometallurgy processes are used to extract lithium, then lithium can be extracted from the material, but hazardous chemicals are used and high energy requirements are incurred, resulting in environmental costs and economic costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical parameters by using a polyol solvent system instead of traditional strong acids, and controls temperature parameters through solvothermal conditions (typically 100-250°C) to achieve selective lithium extraction without hazardous chemicals and with reduced energy consumption compared to pyrometallurgy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a polyol solvent as an intermediary substance that mediates the extraction process. The polyol forms soluble complexes with lithium at specific temperature ranges, enabling selective extraction without requiring hazardous strong acids or high-energy combustion conditions
2Productivity
If traditional leaching processes are used, then lithium can be extracted, but other metals are also dissolved non-selectively, requiring additional extraction and precipitation steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating selective chemical environments through polyol solvents that specifically target lithium extraction. The polyol-Lithium complex formation occurs under controlled solvothermal conditions, allowing lithium to be selectively extracted while leaving other metals undissolved, thus eliminating the need for multiple separation steps
3Productivity
If brine excavation is used for lithium production, then lithium can be extracted from natural sources, but production is limited to selected climates and regions and is dependent on weather conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the natural weather-dependent evaporation process of brine excavation with a controlled solvothermal chemical process. Instead of relying on solar evaporation in specific climates, the invention uses polyol solvents under controlled temperature and pressure conditions to extract lithium, making the process adaptable to any geographic location regardless of climate
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
This process achieves efficient, selective, and environmentally friendly lithium extraction with reduced energy consumption and no hazardous chemical waste, making it economically viable and suitable for recycling lithium from various sources, including lithium-ion battery cathode materials and ores.
Implementation Method 1
Performing a solvothermal treatment of the reaction mixture obtained in step a) to obtain a solvothermally treated composition SP1
Implementation Method 2
Contacting said material with a polyol solvent and a carbonate to obtain a reaction mixture
Implementation Method 3
Separating the liquid L1 containing lithium carbonate and the solid S1 forming the composition SP1 obtained in step b)
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is in the field of the extraction of lithium from a material comprising lithium and at least another metal. In particular, the invention concerns a process of extraction of lithium at least, from a material comprising lithium and at least another metal.