Technology for Lithium Extraction in the Context of Hybrid Geothermal Power

Abstract

The U.S. Department of Energy Geothermal Technologies Office (GTO) has been in the forefront of sponsoring research investigating the potential recovery of lithium, rare earth elements, and other critical minerals from geothermal brines. It has been proposed that the future of geothermal energy should include “hybrid systems” that combine electricity generation with other revenue-generating activities, such as recovery of valuable and critical minerals, including lithium. Berkeley National Laboratory is reviewing technology and processes for the recovery and purification of lithium for GTO, with the objective of enabling the integration of critical materials recovery with geothermal energy production. The purpose of this study is to provide a summary of knowledge, technology, and techniques for extraction and purification of lithium and associated critical materials. Both existing and emerging technologies are examined and evaluated in the context of the unique challenges presented by the extraction of critical materials from geothermal fluids. The study aims to synthesize complex and disparate information in a format that will assist future process development and the advancement of hybrid geothermal power production.