Electro-pressure membrane method for recovery and concentration of lithium from aqueous sources
US12151211B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 12, 2022 |
| Grant date | Nov 26, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 15, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB01D2325/14
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A hybrid electro-pressure driven method for the recovery, purification, and concentration of lithium salts is described. A fractionating electrodialysis stack equipped with selective ion exchange membranes is s used to separate a lithium containing brine into a monovalent enriched fraction and a divalent enriched fraction. The monovalent enriched fraction is further processed to remove remaining impurities by use of pressure driven nanofiltration. An optional concentrating electrodialysis device may further concentrate the monovalent enriched fraction in lithium content. The method may be combined with a subsequent solvent extraction and electrolysis step to produce lithium hydroxide, a Li+ selective sorbent step for producing purified lithium chloride, or a Li+ selective sorbent and precipitative step to produce lithium carbonate.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.