A German team extracts battery-grade lithium from geothermal waters.
In a remarkable breakthrough for the lithium industry, a German-British collaboration has developed an innovative method to extract battery-grade lithium directly from geothermal waters. This development could mark a turning point in lithium production, traditionally criticized for its notable environmental impact. EnBW, in partnership with LevertonHELM, a subsidiary of HELM AG in Germany, has succeeded in producing lithium carbonate with a purity greater than 99.5%. This process begins by extracting a lithium chloride solution from the thermal waters of the Bruchsal geothermal power plant in Baden-Württemberg.
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A promising innovation for battery creation
After initial extraction, the solution is refined in Basingstoke, UK by LevertonHELM. The high-quality lithium salt obtained can then be used directly in the production of battery cathode materials. This success encouraged EnBW and LevertonHELM to further develop this technology with the aim of producing lithium carbonate and lithium hydroxide sustainably.
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Significant ecological benefits
Traditionally, more than half of the world’s lithium supply comes from the “Lithium Triangle” in South America, where extraction requires large amounts of water and has a significant impact on local ecosystems. In comparison, the process developed by EnBW uses geothermal water resources, which are renewable and less disruptive to the environment.
Impact and implications for Europe
This technology represents a significant opportunity to reduce Europe’s dependence on foreign lithium imports. Bart Vanden Bossche, Commercial Director at LevertonHELM, highlights the importance of such collaborations to develop European resources and establish local production capabilities for essential materials.
Support for the energy transition
Dr. Thomas Kölbel, research and development expert at EnBW, explains that lithium plays a crucial role in the expansion of electric mobility and renewable energies. The project seeks to create a sustainable source of lithium to meet growing demand in Germany and Europe.
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The initiative by EnBW and LevertonHELM could well revolutionize lithium production by introducing a cleaner and more sustainable method. This development not only supports Europe’s ecological but also economic objectives, positioning the continent at the forefront of innovation in the lithium-ion battery industry.
Source : ENBW
