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Advances in resourceful recycling technology of lepidolite tailings

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

DOI:10.20078/j.eep.20240614

Abstract:Lepidolite is a significant lithium-rich mineral deposit. During the extraction process of lithium carbonate, substantia... Open+
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 a ton of lithium carbonate generates approximately 150-200 tons of lepidolite tailings. The accumulation, leaching, and seepage of this 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 habitation. The proper management and efficient utilization of lepidolite tailings are essential prerequisites for the development and utilization of lithium mica resources. Curently, the management of lepidolite tailings faces challenges related to inefficieney, low economic value, and fragmented utilization practices. The characteristies 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 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 method, roasting method and autoclave method, leading to the exposure of active metals within the mineral for the extraction of valuable elements. 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. By utilizing a combination of lepidolite tailings 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 recyeling technology.


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Authors:

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

Units

  • College of Environment and Resources, Xiangtan University

Keywords

  • Lepidolite tailings
  • High value utilization
  • Building material
  • Clean backfill technology
  • Comprehensive utilization

Citation

PENG Chuan, HU Xuejun, ZHAO Jing, YU Xiaolong, ZHANG Junfeng. Advances in resourceful recycling technology of lepidolite tailings[J/OL]. Energy Environmental Protection: 1-12[2024-07-04]. https://doi.org/10.20078/j.eep.20240614.

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