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Lithium extraction by extractant confined in Pickering emulsion
Enze Li1, Zelong Li1, Qiancheng Xia2
1Institute of Resources and Environmental Engineering, State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization Technology of Coal Waste Resources, Shanxi Laboratory of Yellow River, Shanxi University, No. 92 Wucheng Road, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China.
Nature Communications
|August 15, 2025
Summary
This study introduces a stable Pickering emulsion using SiO2 nanoparticles to improve lithium extraction from brine. The novel method significantly boosts lithium recovery and separation efficiency compared to traditional techniques.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Global energy transition necessitates sustainable lithium sourcing.
- Existing solvent extraction methods face challenges like extractant loss and low efficiency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a highly stable oil-in-water Pickering emulsion for enhanced lithium extraction.
- To improve lithium recovery and selectivity from salt-lake brine using confined extractants.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a stable oil-in-water Pickering emulsion using amphipathic SiO2 nanoparticles.
- Confinement of tributyl phosphate (TBP) extractant within the emulsion's oil phase.
- Evaluation of lithium extraction efficiency and Li-Mg separation performance.
Main Results:
- Achieved 91.7% lithium recovery and a Li-Mg separation factor (βLiMg) of 101.9 in three stages.
- Demonstrated a Li+ mass transfer rate (k) of 4.57 × 10⁻⁸ m/s.
- Outperformed traditional TBP system (52.8% recovery, βLiMg = 12, k = 7.50 × 10⁻⁹ m/s).
Conclusions:
- The Pickering emulsion system offers superior lithium extraction and separation performance.
- Synergistic effects of interfacial electric fields and confinement within SiO2 particle gaps enhance Li+ transport.
- This approach provides a promising sustainable solution for lithium supply.
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