A Panoramic Review on Intercalation-Based Electrochemical Lithium Extraction From Salt Lakes: Mechanisms, Challenges, and Optimization Strategies.

Abstract

Electrochemical lithium extraction from salt-lake brines integrates electrochemistry and hydrometallurgy by leveraging the selective intercalation mechanisms of lithium-ion battery electrode materials, offering a transformative approach to lithium recovery from complex brine resources. It provides a unique paradigm for achieving high efficiency, low energy consumption, and sustainable lithium recovery. Accordingly, the evolution of the field has been systematically examined-from early ion-pump concepts to continuous rocking-chair configurations-while establishing a theoretical framework that links material structure, interfacial dynamics, and electrochemical pathways. In addition, the contradiction between laboratory metrics and industrial applicability has been analyzed, with emphasis on three core challenges: selective extraction of lithium from salt lakes with high-impurity content and low lithium concentration, long-term cycling stability, and industrially feasible current density. To bridge this gap, this review summarizes emerging optimization strategies spanning from electrode modification (e.g., electrode bulk-phase and interface modification) to system-level engineering (e.g., potential, temperature control, and thick electrode design). Ultimately, this work aims to provide a forward-looking roadmap to accelerate the transition of electrochemical lithium extraction from laboratory research to industrial-scale application, thereby reshaping the future landscape of sustainable lithium supply.