A recent patent filed by the Korea Institute of Industrial Technology on May 16, 2024, introduces a groundbreaking advancement in hydrogen gas production and lithium extraction.
The patent, titled “Selective Ion Separation Membrane and Lithium Extraction and Hydrogen Gas Production System,” presents a novel approach to filtering large ions from supply waters like seawater while isolating valuable ions for use in batteries.
Unique Features and Improvements
The patented technology centers around a selective ion separation membrane composed of lithium lanthanum titanate (LLTO) with the chemical formula Li3xLa2/3-xTiO3. This membrane boasts a composition range for ‘x’ between 0.0333 and 0.1667 and features a TiO6 octagonal crystal structure. The membrane excels in selectively transmitting and extracting lithium ions, a distinct improvement over existing filtration technologies, which often struggle to segregate these valuable ions from larger ones effectively.
Potential Applications
This technology has two primary applications. First, it can be utilized to extract lithium ions, which are essential in the production of batteries. Second, it facilitates hydrogen gas generation, a key eco-friendly energy source. This dual-purpose functionality enhances its appeal in both the energy and battery production sectors.
