Geothermal Lithium Extraction Technology: Research Status and Prospects

Bo Zhang, Feng Wang, Ronggang Wang, Yuhan Shang, Feng Li, Mengjiao Li and Tao Wang ()
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Bo Zhang: Guizhou Branch, China Three Gorges Corporation, Guiyang 550081, China
Feng Wang: Guizhou Branch, China Three Gorges Corporation, Guiyang 550081, China
Ronggang Wang: Guizhou Branch, China Three Gorges Corporation, Guiyang 550081, China
Yuhan Shang: Power Market Research Center, China Three Gorges Corporation, Beijing 100080, China
Feng Li: Guizhou Branch, China Three Gorges Corporation, Guiyang 550081, China
Mengjiao Li: Guizhou Branch, China Three Gorges Corporation, Guiyang 550081, China
Tao Wang: Three Gorges Financial Leasing Co., Ltd., China Three Gorges Corporation, Beijing 101100, China

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 12, 1-21

Abstract: With the explosive growth in global lithium demand driven by the new energy industry, traditional lithium extraction methods face critical challenges such as resource scarcity, environmental pressure, and high energy consumption, necessitating sustainable alternatives. Under such circumstances, geothermal brine has emerged as a critical lithium resource, attracting significant attention due to advancements in efficient extraction technologies. This review establishes a comprehensive framework for analyzing geothermal lithium extraction technologies, with the following key contributions: an in-depth analysis of resource characteristics and development advantages, an innovative technical evaluation and performance comparison, and strategic pathways for technological synergy and industrial integration. This article reviews the global distribution and characteristics of lithium resources, analyzes the advantages and primary methods of geothermal lithium extraction, and examines key challenges such as high energy consumption and environmental impacts. Furthermore, future development directions are outlined. Currently, applicable technologies for geothermal lithium extraction include evaporation–crystallization, chemical precipitation, adsorption, solvent extraction, electrochemical methods, and membrane separation. Among these, membrane separation, particularly forward osmosis (FO), is identified as a pivotal research focus. The industrialization of geothermal lithium extraction and its integration with other industries are expected to shape future trends. This review not only provides critical insights and optimization strategies for geothermal lithium resource development, but also establishes a theoretical foundation for the green transition and sustainable utilization of resources in the global new energy industry.

Keywords: geothermal brine; lithium extraction; membrane separation; forward osmosis membrane technology (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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