Eco-Friendly Electroextraction of Li Metal from Brines

Current Li metal is produced though a ôtwo-stepö method, including the extraction of raw Li salt, generally LiCl, followed by the electrolysis of anhydrous LiCl component in LiCl-KCl eutectic. However, the electrolysis process of Li metal production is energy-intensive and generates toxic chlorine gas (Cl2) as a by-product. Storagenergy Technologies Inc. proposes an innovative eco-friendly technology for efficient and sustainable direct electroextraction of Li metal from brines. Our proposed technology offers several significant advantages: (1) mitigating toxic gas generation by electrochemical reactions of redox shuttle molecules in cathode half-cell. (2) Minimizing additional waste disposal by using natural brines. (3) Producing high-purity metallic Li and (4) Achieving a continuous production of high-purity Li metal without any supplementary process. The successful implementation of this technology will meet the increasing demands for high-purity Li metal in energy storage, particularly in the batteries industry. Anticipated Benefits/Potential Commercial Applications of the Research or development In our proposed technology, the generation of toxic gas will be mitigated, and the design of flow cells enable a streamlined and uninterrupted Li metal production process. If successful, this novel technology would significantly improve high-purity Li metal yield, thus enhancing the United Statesĺ industrial competitiveness in advanced key materials and manufacturing sectors.