Key Findings
The developed membrane achieved a Li+/Mg2+ separation factor of up to 6454 when tested at an Mg/Li mass ratio of 140 under electrodialysis conditions. In tests using untreated natural salt-lake brine with an Mg/Li mass ratio of 87 and various competing ions, the membrane maintained a separation factor above 1200. To demonstrate practical viability, the researchers fabricated a 25 cm × 35 cm membrane and confirmed stable performance over 15 days of repeated operation.
Technical Details
The core of the technology lies in the regulation of the crosslinking degree during the membrane formation process. This approach allows for precise subnanometer pore size control within the narrow window required to differentiate between Li+ and Mg2+ ions. The membrane was tested under electrodialysis conditions to evaluate its selectivity and stability.
Background & Context
Membrane-based separation is a competitive technology for extracting lithium from salt-lake brines. However, industrial implementation has been hindered by the low Li+/Mg2+ selectivity of conventional membranes. This research addresses the need for membranes that can operate effectively despite high magnesium concentrations and the presence of other competing ions found in natural brine sources.
Significance & Outlook
The ability to produce larger-scale membranes (25 cm × 35 cm) and maintain stability over two weeks suggests a path toward industrial application. This design strategy for precisely regulating subnanometer pores may be applicable to a wide range of other sustainable separation processes requiring high ion selectivity.
Source: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-026-79061-z
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