Research Projects
Thermion
Project:
Extraction of Lithium from thermal brine (ThermIon)
Duration:
01.10.2024 - 30.09.2027
Project Coordinator:
Fraunhofer-Institute for Solare Energysystems
Project Partners:
- Universität Bremen
- K-UTEC AG Salt Technologies
- VKTA-Strahlenschutz
- Analytik &Entsorgung Rossendorf e.V. mit BWG Geochemische Beratung GmbH
- KIT-Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
- DVGW-Forschungsstelle am EBI des KIT
- Deutsche ErdWärme GmbH
Abstract:
The economic extraction of lithium and other critical resources from deep thermal water deposits depends on the sustainable availability of the extracted thermal water.
On the one hand, a comprehensive evaluation of the lithium resources, but also of the deposits of other raw materials (e.g. rubidium, cesium, cobalt, antimony) in the geothermal aquifers of the Upper Rhine Graben is being carried out with regard to long-term economically and ecologically sustainable management. On the other hand, a technology for the selective extraction of Li from thermal waters is being developed and demonstrated. In order to ensure long-term availability, it is essential to evaluate the groundwater flow paths and the origin of the dissolved substances.
In order to carry out the necessary hydrochemical transport modeling, hydrochemical and isotopic data must be collected. Hydroisotop is responsible for the analysis and evaluation of this data. In addition to the hydrogeochemical assessment of the water origin, leaching experiments with analog rocks will be carried out in the course of the project, which are intended to map the water-rock interactions and the raw material potential.
Hydroisotop will provide analytical and interpretative support within the sub-project. Due to their hydrochemical composition, thermal waters can only be sustainably extracted and injected with the help of inhibitors. However, these can have a negative impact on the extraction processes of lithium and other elements. As part of the project, Hydroisotop is supporting the evaluation and selection of suitable inhibitors with specialized laboratory tests.