An optimized approach for Lithium Extraction from ore found in Reasi District, Jammu

This research aims to investigate and optimize lithium extraction from hard rock ore found in the Jammu Reasi district. With lithium being a crucial element for battery technologies in electric vehicles and energy storage systems, the discovery of an estimated 5.9 million tonnes of lithium-containing ore in India presents a significant opportunity to reduce dependence on imports. However, lithium extraction from hard rock deposits is more complex and energy-intensive than lithium brine sources, necessitating efficient and cost-effective processing methods. Mineralogical characterization using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) confirmed the presence of lithium at a concentration of 3.29 wt%, primarily in the form of LiAl₂SiO₆. Further analysis revealed that lithium remains extractable from the ore, and in the final processed sample, lithium is still present at around 3.29 wt%. This highlights the potential for optimizing extraction techniques to maximize lithium recovery. If maximum extraction efficiency is achieved, India can become self-sufficient in lithium production, eliminating the need for imports. Moreover, local extraction from the mine can provide economic benefits and employment opportunities to communities in the region. A sulfuric acid digestion method was employed to leach lithium into the solution, followed by quantitative analysis using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) to determine lithium recovery efficiency. Given the complex mineralogical composition, alternative separation strategies such as nanofiltration using the DK membrane series for selective aluminium ion retention and alkali digestion with sodium hydroxide to precipitate aluminium hydroxide (Al (OH)₃) are suggested for further extraction process optimization. The subsequent conversion of the extracted lithium into battery-grade lithium hydroxide and lithium iron phosphate involves additional chemical refining steps, requiring precursors such as cobalt sulfate, nickel sulfate, and magnesium sulfate. The optimization of these processes is essential to improve extraction efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact. The successful refinement of lithium from the Reasi reserves has the potential to establish a domestic supply chain, enhance India's energy security, and contribute to the advancement of clean energy technologies.