Research Progress of Working Electrode in Electrochemical Extraction of Lithium from Brine

Efficient extraction of Li from brine at a low cost is becoming a key technology to solve energy and environmental problems. Electrochemical extraction of Li has become a research hotspot due to its low energy consumption, high selectivity, and environmental friendliness. LiMn2O4, LiFePO4, and LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 are widely used as cathode materials for the electrochemical extraction of Li but they also have some drawbacks, such as a small adsorption capacity. In this paper, the principle of electrochemical Li extraction from brine is reviewed and the research progress and analysis of the above three working electrode materials is summarized. In addition, analysis of the extraction of other rare ions from the working electrode material and the effect of micro-organisms on the working electrode material is also presented. Next, the shortcomings of working electrode materials are expounded upon and the research direction of working electrode materials in electrochemical Li extraction technology are prospected. It is hoped that this paper can provide insights and guidance for the research and application of electrochemical Li extraction from brine. © 2022 by the authors.