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Advances in Resourceful Recycling Technology of Lepidolite Tailings

Received Date:2024-05-13 Revised Date:2024-06-19 Accepted Date:2024-06-21

DOI:10.20078/j.eep.20240614

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    Abstract:Lepidolite is a significant lithium-rich mineral deposit. During the extraction process oflithium carbonate, substantial... Open+
    Abstract:

    Lepidolite is a significant lithium-rich mineral deposit. During the extraction process oflithium carbonate, substantial quantities of lepidolite tailings are generated as a byproduct. Theextraction 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 metalelements into groundwater, soil, and the atmosphere, posing potential risks to the ecological system andhuman health. The proper management and efficient utilization of lepidolite tailings are essentialprerequisites for the development and utilization of lithium mica resources. Currently, the managementof lepidolite tailings faces challenges related to inefficiency, low economic value, and fragmentedutilization 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,Energy Environmental Protectioncarbon mitigation, and ecological preservation. Therefore, this study outlines the primary technologiesemployed for repurposing lepidolite tailings, categorizing them into three treatment strategies:extraction of valuable elements, utilization in construction materials, and environmentally friendlybackfilling. The stable molecular structure of lepidolite can be destroyed by acid leaching, roasting, andautoclave methods, leading to the exposure of active metals within the mineral for the extraction ofvaluable elements. The environmentally sustainable chlorination roasting technique has the potential tominimize the quantity of chlorinating agents required while facilitating the effective extraction oflithium, potassium, rubidium, and cesium. Utilizing a thermal activation-acid leaching method, theextraction efficiency of lithium can be enhanced to 99.79%. The lepidolite tailings containing quartzand feldspar can serve as viable raw materials or additives in the production of various constructionmaterials, including but not limited to cement, concrete, ceramics, and geopolymers. The cementcomposite formulated from lepidolite tailings demonstrates superior mechanical properties. Theinteraction mechanisms between lepidolite tailings and cementitious materials are studied in thedevelopment of environmentally sustainable filling materials to improve their mechanical performanceand workability. Furthermore, the potential for high-value applications of lepidolite tailings isdiscussed, with the goal of advancing the extensive application and industrial growth of resourceutilization technologies for lepidolite mine waste residues. The findings of the research suggest thatinnovative recycling technologies for lepidolite tailings facilitate the minimization and safe managementof waste residues and enhance the circular economy of resources, thereby contributing to sustainabledevelopment. Nonetheless, additional investigation is required to tackle the intricate composition oftailings, the high costs, and the complexities associated with their utilization. These efforts are essentialfor advancing the widespread implementation and industrial advancement of these innovative recyclingtechnologies. Future research directions should focus on optimizing extraction methodologies,enhancing resource recovery rates, lowering production expenses, and creating applications with highereconomic value. and cementing material in the production of environmentally filling material,enhancements are observed in both its mechanical characteristics and flow properties. The papersynthesizes the advancement of high-value applications for lepidolite tailings, aiming to enhance thewidespread adoption and industrial progress of lepidolite tailings recycling technology.

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    Authors:

    • PENG Chuan
    • HU Xuejun
    • ZHAO Jing
    • YU Xiaolong
    • ZHANG Junfeng*

    Units

    • College of Environment and Resources, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, China

    Keywords

    • Lepidolite tailings
    • Resource utilization
    • Highvalue utilization
    • Valuable elementextraction
    • Building materials
    • Environmentally friendly backfilling
    • Waste residue treatment

    Citation

    PENG Chuan, HU Xuejun, ZHAO Jing, et al. Advances in Resourceful Recycling Technology of Lepidolite Tailings[J]. Energy Environmental Protection, 2025, 39(2): 70−82.

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