Centuries ago, attempts to convert lead into gold laid the foundation for alchemy and thus for chemistry. Although these studies by alchemists were unsuccessful, there are less abundant resources in nature. the idea of ​​acquiring valuable resourceshas reached the present.

In this regard, scientists at the Pacific Northwest Laboratory (PNNL), affiliated with the US Department of Energy, are reported to be working with industry to extract precious metals from various water sources. from water sources lithium At this stage for the extraction of important metals such as: magnetic nanoparticles It states that a method using it will be tested.

It may be possible to obtain lithium much faster and cheaper than water

Lithium is used in many applications, including lightweight lithium-ion batteries that power everything from cell phones to electric vehicles. an essential component in electronics and energy technology plays a role. This means that lithium is an “indispensable” for many areas of modern life. While the global lithium market is estimated to reach $8.2 billion by 2028; Too little lithium production in the US is a major problem.

PNNL’s patent-pending technology not only gives the United States the ability to produce more of its own lithium and other critical materials, but also makes it much easier to do. faster and cheaper offers a way. Accordingly, PNNL has reportedly developed magnetic nanoparticles surrounded by an adsorbent shell that targets lithium and other metals found in water associated with various industrial processes.

These resources can be water from geothermal power plants, also known as geothermal brine, or water extracted from groundwater during oil or gas production; It is also stated that the particles can also be used in waste from desalination plants and even directly in seawater.

Thanks to this technology, when small iron-based particles are added to water, lithium is extracted from the water and binds to these particles. Then nanoparticles using a magnet is collected so that the lithium, which is no longer suspended in the liquid, is ready for easy extraction. In addition, after the lithium is extracted, the nanoparticles can be charged because they can be reused.

A promising alternative to expensive conventional lithium extraction methods

The technology shows promise compared to traditional extraction methods, a costly process that involves pumping groundwater into large evaporation ponds. alternative offers. The fact that these processes take months or even years and often affect groundwater management in arid areas where they are deployed shows that the need for such technology is quite high.

PNNL is developing this technology in partnership with Moselle Technologies, which has licensed it and plans to test it in several locations. This effort and ongoing activities will help national laboratories to support laboratory research. in real-world solutions It is also an example of how it works with commercial organizations on his behalf.

While none of these efforts delivered the magic promised by alchemy, what a tremendous contribution the ancient alchemists actually made to the science of chemistry. contribution show yes. With PNNL’s unique approach, extracting important minerals quickly and cost-effectively will weigh on the world and science. much more valuable than gold it could be.