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Estimates of lithium mass yields from produced water sourced from the Devonian-aged Marcellus Shale

  • 0National Energy Technology Laboratory, Pittsburgh, PA, 15236, USA. Justin.Mackey@netl.doe.gov.
Scientific Reports +

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April 16, 2024

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April 16, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Marcellus Shale produced water in Pennsylvania contains significant extractable lithium, yielding approximately 1160 metric tons annually. Regional variations in water chemistry and production impact lithium recovery efficiency.

Area Of Science

  • Geochemistry
  • Resource Management
  • Environmental Science

Background

  • Growing demand for lithium driven by decarbonization efforts.
  • Need to identify and quantify unconventional lithium resources.
  • Marcellus Shale produced water as a potential lithium source.

Purpose Of The Study

  • Estimate total lithium mass yields from Marcellus Shale produced water in Pennsylvania.
  • Analyze regional variations in lithium concentration, production volumes, and extraction efficiencies.
  • Assess the impact of geochemistry (Mg/Li ratios) on lithium recovery.

Main Methods

  • Utilized public waste compliance reports for produced water data.
  • Applied Monte Carlo simulations to estimate lithium mass yields.
  • Conducted production decline curve analysis on produced water volumes.
  • Analyzed regional Mg/Li mass ratios.

Main Results

  • Marcellus Shale produced water in PA shows substantial extractable lithium potential.
  • Estimated statewide annual lithium mass yield of approximately 1160 metric tons.
  • Significant regional disparities in produced water volumes and lithium yields between northeast and southwest PA.
  • Northeast PA exhibits lower Mg/Li ratios (median 5.39) compared to southwest PA (median 17.8).

Conclusions

  • Marcellus Shale produced water represents a significant domestic lithium resource.
  • Regional variations in water chemistry and production volumes necessitate tailored extraction strategies.
  • Further research is needed to optimize lithium recovery efficiencies from this unconventional source.