Lithium Production from North American Brines

Authors

Abstract

This memo documents a literature review and preliminary life-cycle inventory on producing lithium-based chemicals lithium carbonate (Li2CO3) and lithium hydroxide (LiOH) from North American brines, which has been incorporated into the GREET 2022 model release. These brines are being considered for domestic production of these chemicals in the United States in light of the importance of their reliable supply to meet the increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries. If produced successfully at commercial scale, Li chemicals processed from these domestic brines are expected to substitute their imported counterparts, thus meeting a US strategic goal.