Efficient extraction of lithium ions from brine: a sustainable approach

The production of lithium batteries is one of the fastest-growing industries globally, driving the demand for efficient lithium compound extraction techniques. The separation of lithium ions from magnesium poses a significant challenge due to their similar chemical properties. To address this, ion exchange sieves, sorbents, and electrosorbents are commonly employed. In this study, we developed an acetate-phosphate-cellulose sorbent by incorporating phosphoric acid into acetate cellulose. The sorbent demonstrated a static exchange capacity of 25.48 mg/g for lithium hydroxide and was effectively regenerated with 0.4 N HCl. Even after 10 reapplications, the sorption efficiency remained above 93%, showcasing the material's durability and reusability. The composition and structure of the sorbent were confirmed through SEM analysis, IR spectroscopy, and potentiometric titration, revealing a phosphoric acid residue trapping efficiency of 33%. This work presents a cost-effective, recyclable material with promising potential for industrial lithium recovery.