A recent study published in Science Advances by Duke University has uncovered distinctive geochemical properties of lithium-rich brines found in salt pans (salars) in South America and Asia.
About Lithium
Lithium is a lightweight, silvery-white alkali metal with the lowest density among metals.
It reacts vigorously with water and makes alloys with aluminium and magnesium, enhancing material strength and reducing weight—ideal for aerospace and battery technologies.
Lithium, also known as “white gold”, is a critical mineral essential for the renewable energy sector, especially in the production of electric vehicle (EV) batteries and energy storage systems.
Around 40% of global lithium supply is derived from evaporative brine mining in salt flats (salars) of the central Andes (Chile, Argentina, Bolivia—“Lithium Triangle”) and the Tibetan Plateau.
Key Findings
The study focused on Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, the world’s largest lithium brine reserve, located in a high-altitude arid region.
It was found that, unlike seawater, where carbonate molecules dominate pH regulation, the pH of these brines is controlled almost entirely by boron compounds.
Boron, present in the form of boric acid and borates, was found to determine the pH and alkalinity of natural brines.
During brine evaporation in mining ponds:
The concentration of boron increases.
Boric acid breaks down, releasing hydrogen ions, which lowers the pH and makes the brine highly acidic.
Dear Student,
You have still not entered your mailing address. Please enter the address where all the study materials will be sent to you. (If applicable).
