Lithium extraction from its resources using functional materials based on lithium-ion imprinted polymers: a review

The global demand for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is rapidly rising, driven primarily by the growth of electric vehicle production. This trend accelerates the depletion of natural lithium resources and generates a substantial volume of spent lithium-ion batteries (SLIBs). Therefore, effective and efficient methods for extracting lithium from both natural sources and SLIBs are critically important. Hydrometallurgical lithium extraction using lithium-ion imprinted polymers (Li-IIPs) offers a more environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional solvent extraction methods as it generates less liquid waste. Li-IIPs also demonstrate superior adsorption selectivity, which has garnered considerable attention from researchers. However, comprehensive reviews of lithium extraction using Li-IIPs remain limited. This review consolidates research findings on lithium extraction from both natural sources and SLIBs using Li-IIPs published in Scopus-indexed journals over the past decade. Currently, the application of Li-IIPs for lithium extraction is restricted to laboratory-scale studies, primarily due to low adsorption capacities. This review aims to provide a theoretical and practical foundation for the development of advanced Li-IIPs to facilitate the future implementation of industrial-scale lithium extraction using column, magnetic separation, and membrane technologies.