A new extraction process could unlock the lithium
A new extraction process for lithium has been developed, which could significantly reduce costs and carbon emissions in lithium production. The technique, commercialized by startup Rock Zero, utilizes a weak acid to dissolve silicate minerals, making lithium extraction more efficient and environmentally friendly. Researchers believe this method could become the lowest-cost way to source lithium globally.
- ▪The new extraction process uses ammonium fluoride to dissolve silicate minerals, freeing lithium and other useful materials.
- ▪This method could eliminate the need for high-temperature roasting, saving energy and reducing carbon emissions.
- ▪Rock Zero aims to commercialize this technique, which has already reduced extraction time to under 12 hours.
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Climate change and energyHow a new extraction process could unlock the world’s lithiumStartup Rock Zero is commercializing the research, which could cut costs and carbon emissions from lithium production. By Casey Crownhartarchive pageMay 28, 2026Greenbushes Lithium Operations in Australia is the largest hard-rock lithium mine in the world.Adobe StockEXECUTIVE SUMMARY Researchers say they’ve found a new way to extract lithium, a crucial metal used in the lithium-ion batteries that power electric vehicles and energy storage arrays. This new technique could be more environmentally friendly and cheaper than existing ones. The research was published today in Science, and a startup called Rock Zero is working to commercialize the process.
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