Fine-Tuning 2D Heterogeneous Channels for Charge-Lock Enhanced Lithium Separation from Brine.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Lithium extraction from brines is hindered by magnesium ion interference.
• Selective separation of lithium ions (Li⁺) from magnesium ions (Mg²⁺) is crucial for efficient resource recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel strategy for the rapid and selective extraction of Li⁺ from complex brines.
• To address the challenges posed by Mg²⁺ interference in lithium separation processes.

Main Methods:

• Integration of porous ZnFe₂O₄/ZnO nanosheets into Ag⁺-modulated sub-nanometer channels.
• Implementation of a charge-lock mechanism for selective Mg²⁺ capture.
• Fabrication of 2D heterogeneous channels for enhanced ion transport.

Main Results:

• Achieved 99.8% Mg²⁺ rejection and a Li⁺/Mg²⁺ selectivity of 59.3 under real brine conditions.
• Demonstrated high water flux (44.37 L m⁻² h⁻¹ bar⁻¹) and superior cyclic stability.
• The charge-lock mechanism effectively targets Mg²⁺ via strong interactions with negatively charged oxygen atoms.

Conclusions:

• The developed 2D heterogeneous membrane with a charge-lock mechanism offers a promising solution for selective lithium extraction.
• This technology exhibits high efficiency, stability, and potential for industrial-scale brine processing.
• The findings advance membrane technology for critical mineral resource recovery.