A Different Approach For Lithium Extraction From Ore: Feldspar Extract Lithium

2024-07-12

Currently, the global lithium ore market is facing a persistent supply and demand imbalance that is unlikely to alleviate in the near term. The sluggish pace of new production capacity development, coupled with the continuous surge in demand, has contributed to this formidable challenge. Consequently, there is an escalating necessity to further augment the proportion of lithium production from prospective ore sources.

In addition to conventional methods of lithium ore extraction such as lithium mica, spodumene, and lithium salt lake mining, certain enterprises are also exploring the extraction of lithium from feldspar deposits. This diversification in extraction methodologies aims at meeting the burgeoning demand for lithium while ensuring a sustainable supply chain. The advancement of technologies pertaining to extracting lithium from feldspar holds immense potential for expanding the availability of this invaluable resource. By tapping into alternative sources like feldspar deposits, we can diminish our reliance on conventional mining practices and ensure a more stable supply of lithium for various industries.

About Petalite

Physical Property

Petalite is a feldspar mineral that belongs to the silicate group, with a chemical formula of LiAl(Si4O10). This composition indicates that it consists of lithium (Li), aluminum (Al), silicon (Si), and oxygen (O). Sanilite typically forms in a monoclinic crystalline system, exhibiting a Mohs hardness ranging from 6.5 to 7, which makes it relatively durable. It has a density of 2.4 to 2.5 g/cm³, which is comparatively low. Being part of the monoclinic system implies that its crystal structure possesses three unequal axes, one being perpendicular to the other two. One notable characteristic is its colorless or white appearance, occasionally displaying a pale pink or gray tint. The cleavage surface exhibits either glassy or pearly luster, while its transparent to translucent nature allows for light transmission.

Formation and Distribution

Petalite primarily forms through the process of pegmatite formation, which occurs during the final stage of crystallization in igneous rocks. Pegmatite formation involves the concentration and solidification of a melt rich in lithium and other volatile elements, resulting in the development of coarse-grained rock with exceptionally large crystals. These rocks typically occur as veins or dikes within surrounding formations. As magma further cools within pegmatites, hyaline feldspar crystals begin to crystallize. Sanilite is one among several minerals that can precipitate from highly concentrated and volatile residual melts, alongside other lithium-containing minerals such as spodumene and lepidolite.

 

Application of Petalite

lithium Battery

Petalite, a lithium-rich mineral, plays a pivotal role in meeting the escalating demands of the battery industry. With its substantial lithium content, petalite serves as an indispensable source for manufacturing lithium-ion batteries that power various portable electronic devices such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets. The widespread utilization of these devices in our daily lives has resulted in a surge in demand for efficient and long-lasting energy storage solutions. Lithium-ion batteries have emerged as the preferred choice due to their high energy density and rechargeable capabilities. Petalite's abundance of lithium renders it an invaluable resource for ensuring the availability of these batteries on a large scale.

Furthermore, petalite's significance extends beyond consumer electronics. The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy storage systems further underscores the importance of this mineral. EVs are gaining popularity as they offer a sustainable alternative to conventional gasoline-powered cars. These vehicles heavily rely on lithium-ion batteries for their power requirements, thereby making petalite even more vital. As we strive towards achieving greater sustainability goals globally, petalite's contribution is positioned as an important resource to meet the growing demands not only within the battery industry but also across sectors such as consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and renewable energy storage systems. Its abundant supply ensures that we can continue enjoying technological advancements while moving towards a greener future powered by clean energy solutions.

Ceramics and Glass Industry

Its low coefficient of thermal expansion and high melting point make it widely utilized in the ceramics and glass industries.In addition to its incorporation into ceramic glazes and glass formulations for enhanced thermal shock resistance and high-temperature stability, it can also be employed in the production of various refractories.Due to its exceptional fire resistance, sanlidene feldspar finds extensive application in metallurgical, chemical, and other industries.Within the field of ceramics, petalite ​is frequently utilized for fabricating crucibles, kiln utensils, and other high-temperature vessels.Vessels made from petalite not only endure processing at extremely elevated temperatures but also maintain their morphological stability without experiencing cracking or deformation due to their outstanding compressive strength and fire-resistant properties.

In the glass industry, petalite serves as a crucial raw material as well.      By incorporating it into glass formulations, the temperature difference resistance and mechanical strength of glass products can be significantly improved.This is particularly beneficial for high-temperature glassware that undergoes rapid temperature changes or frequent cooling processes (such as laboratory equipment or optical lenses).The utilization of formulations containing dilithic feldspar ensures better product quality and safety.

To summarize, owing to its characteristics such as a low expansion coefficient, high fire resistance, and excellent mechanical strength;petalite exhibits vast potential applications within the ceramic and glass fiber industries while simultaneously fostering innovation possibilities for related sectors

Grinding Mill Recommended

HGM Ultrafine Grinding Mill

Capacity: 1-45 t/h
Feed Size: ≤20 mm
Powder Fineness: 325-3000 mesh

The ultrafine mill is a type of machinery used to produce ultrafine powder, with the processed finished product achieving a fineness level of 0.074-0.038mm. It is currently available in the market and known for its exceptional fineness capabilities. This equipment has been widely utilized across various industries, including construction materials, chemicals, fillers, plastics, paper, and paint production. As long as the raw materials have a Mohs hardness rating below 9 and are non-flammable or explosive brittle substances, they can be effectively processed using this machine. Commonly processed raw materials include mica, kaolin, limestone, bentonite coal gangue,and barite.

Mill Advantages

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  1. Designed with durability in mind, this equipment exhibits minimal wear and shock due to its use of special wear-resistant steel for the grinding roller and ring components. Additionally, the main machine base adopts an integral casting structure which not only guarantees structural strength but also provides excellent anti-shock performance.