Lithium extraction from mining and mineral processing wastes

Due to increased demand on energy storage sector and limited worldwide reserves of lithium, sustainable and reliable sources of this critical metal are being sought. Mining and mineral-processing wastes remain one of world's largest waste streams and proper management of these wastes provides multiple benefits – saving natural resources, reducing supply risk and enhancing environmental performance. Therefore, in terms of their possible use as a cheap and available source of Li (and other valuable elements), the review paper evaluates various mining, industrial and mineral-processing wastes – waste aluminosilicates (including B clays), bauxite processing residues (including red mud or overhaul slag), coal gangue and coal ash, Sn-W clay residues and other wastes (e.g., rare earth molten salt electrolysis slag). The paper discusses physical, chemical and biotechnological methods used for Li extraction from these materials and documents that efficient extraction is technically feasible. To enhance the economic viability, co-extraction of Li and other critical elements (REE, Al, Rb, Cs, Ge, Ga, V, etc.) is evaluated as well. In addition to technologic and economic implications, overall framing of Li extraction from secondary sources in the context of environmental and social sustainability is discussed as well.