A short abstract of the doctoral research

Lithium plays a key role in the energy transition to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions to near zero levels. Its light and energy dense properties make it an ideal material to store energy in batteries that are used in mobile applications, such as portable electronics and electrical vehicles. Currently, the EU sources almost all its lithium from outside the EU and is urging to develop its own sustainable domestic supply chain. Although the EU does not have sufficient domestic natural lithium sources to meet its demand, it can play a key role in the conversion of intermediate lithium salts, such as LiCl and Li₂SO₄, into the battery precursors Li₂CO₃ and LiOH. This process is currently performed through the addition of Na₂CO₃ and Ca(OH)₂, but a substantial amount of greenhouse gases are emitted and salt waste is generated that requires further treatment.

Membrane electrolysis is a more sustainable alternative that converts lithium salts into LiOH. It can eliminate most greenhouse gas emissions and generate valuable byproducts instead of waste. This thesis aims to support the development of membrane electrolysis for the conversion of lithium salts and accelerate its adoption by industrial players. Different membrane electrolysis configurations were evaluated and optimized, including the chlor-alkali electrolyzer, three-compartment electrolyzer and bipolar electrodialysis, for both LiCl and Li₂SO₄ electrolytes. In addition, the effect of impurities, coming from battery recycling activities, on the electrolyzer is investigated.