Beneficiation of Lithium from Spodumene Rich Pegmatite: A Review

Lithium, a vital metal for modern technology, has become a highly sought-after commodity in Nigeria. The country is endowed with significant lithium deposits, particularly in Kaduna, Kwara, and Niger states. These deposits have the potential to support Nigeria's economic growth and meet the increasing global demand for lithium-ion batteries, which are crucial for electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. In Nigeria, lithium-bearing minerals such as spodumene, petalite, and micas have been identified in pegmatites and granites. The deposits in Kaduna, Kwara, and Niger states are particularly promising, with spodumene being the most abundant and economically viable mineral due to its high lithium content (approximately 8 wt% Li2O). The beneficiation of these hard rock lithium deposits in Nigeria is crucial to unlock their economic potential. This paper reviews the current state of lithium beneficiation in Nigeria, including the use of flotation, dense media separation, magnetic separation, and roasting techniques to process spodumene-bearing ores. By leveraging these technologies, Nigeria can position itself as a significant player in the global lithium market, supporting the growth of the electric vehicle industry and renewable energy sector.