Electrochemical lithium extraction from aqueous sources

Lithium (Li) has been considered as the backbone of modern energy infrastructures. In recent years, the production rate of Li has lagged behind the global demand due to the proliferation of electric devices and vehicles. To ensure a stable and sustainable supply of Li, electrochemical extraction of Li from unconventional aqueous sources, especially seawater containing almost inexhaustible Li resource, has received extensive attention. To proceed the way to real practices, this review covers a broad knowledge of electrochemical Li recovery processes, including cell configurations, working principles, and performance metrics. Specifically, Li-selective materials (electrodes, adsorbents, and membranes), pivotal to achieve superior Li selectivity and extraction performance, has been carefully summarized to spur innovative design strategies. Herein, an integrated system is conceived where electrochemical Li recovery unit functions as a bridge to connect desalination plant and battery industry, offering a feasible solution to circular economy at the water-energy nexus.