Lithium mining and recycling are currently encumbered by the presence of other salts in typical lithium sources, which are typically present at much higher concentrations. The separation between lithium and sodium is specifically challenging, because of the high similarity between those elements. In this project, we develop an advanced organic nanoporous material that can selectively adsorb lithium in the presence of sodium, allowing for lithium extraction in a single step. This is accomplished quickly, without using chemical reagents or evaporating water, in contrast to current processes.

The nanoporous material can be applied in membranes or electrodes. The uptake, conduction and release of lithium ions through the novel material is driven by an electric field, fast and without the use of chemicals. This enables cheaper and low environmental impact lithium production, including from non-conventional sources that are available in Europe.