Advances in Resourceful Recycling Technology of Lepidolite Tailings
Journal Title: Energy Environmental Protection - Year 2025, Vol 39, Issue 2
Abstract
Lepidolite is a significant lithium-rich mineral deposit. During the extraction process of lithium carbonate, substantial quantities of lepidolite tailings are generated as a byproduct. The extraction of one ton of lithium carbonate generates approximately 150 - 200 tons of lepidolite tailings. The accumulation, leaching, and seepage of these lepidolite tailings may result in the migration of metal elements into groundwater, soil, and the atmosphere, posing potential risks to the ecological system and human health. The proper management and efficient utilization of lepidolite tailings are essential prerequisites for the development and utilization of lithium mica resources. Currently, the management of lepidolite tailings faces challenges related to inefficiency, low economic value, and fragmented utilization practices. The characteristics of lepidolite tailings vary significantly across different regions, resulting in a low overall utilization rate that fails to meet the practical needs of pollution reduction, carbon mitigation, and ecological preservation. Therefore, this study outlines the primary technologies employed for repurposing lepidolite tailings, categorizing them into three treatment strategies: extraction of valuable elements, utilization in construction materials, and environmentally friendly backfilling. The stable molecular structure of lepidolite can be destroyed by acid leaching, roasting, and autoclave methods, leading to the exposure of active metals within the mineral for the extraction of valuable elements. The environmentally sustainable chlorination roasting technique has the potential to minimize the quantity of chlorinating agents required while facilitating the effective extraction of lithium, potassium, rubidium, and cesium. Utilizing a thermal activation-acid leaching method, the extraction efficiency of lithium can be enhanced to 99.79%. The lepidolite tailings containing quartz and feldspar can serve as viable raw materials or additives in the production of various construction materials, including but not limited to cement, concrete, ceramics, and geopolymers. The cement composite formulated from lepidolite tailings demonstrates superior mechanical properties. The interaction mechanisms between lepidolite tailings and cementitious materials are studied in the development of environmentally sustainable filling materials to improve their mechanical performance and workability. Furthermore, the potential for high-value applications of lepidolite tailings is discussed, with the goal of advancing the extensive application and industrial growth of resource utilization technologies for lepidolite mine waste residues. The findings of the research suggest that innovative recycling technologies for lepidolite tailings facilitate the minimization and safe management of waste residues and enhance the circular economy of resources, thereby contributing to sustainable development. Nonetheless, additional investigation is required to tackle the intricate composition of tailings, the high costs, and the complexities associated with their utilization. These efforts are essential for advancing the widespread implementation and industrial advancement of these innovative recycling technologies. Future research directions should focus on optimizing extraction methodologies, enhancing resource recovery rates, lowering production expenses, and creating applications with higher economic value. and cementing material in the production of environmentally filling material, enhancements are observed in both its mechanical characteristics and flow properties. The paper synthesizes the advancement of high-value applications for lepidolite tailings, aiming to enhance the widespread adoption and industrial progress of lepidolite tailings recycling technology.
Authors and Affiliations
Chuan PENG,Xuejun HU,Jing ZHAO,Xiaolong YU,Junfeng ZHANG,
Keywords
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