Nanochannel membranes in direct lithium extraction: a comprehensive review on lithium market analysis and membrane technology development

The global transition to electric vehicles has significantly increased lithium demand, driving the need for more efficient and sustainable extraction methods. This review presents a technoeconomic analysis of the lithium market, Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) implementation costs, and current trends. It critically examines membrane-based DLE technologies, focusing on nanochannel membranes that enable selective ion transport through precisely engineered molecular-scale channels. A comprehensive evaluation of membrane applications throughout the DLE process, from pretreatment to the core selective extraction and post-treatment, is provided. The review also explores how nanochannel morphology, size, and surface properties influence lithium selectivity. Moreover, the critical relationships between selectivity and permeability have been highlighted. Key technical challenges, including operational stability and scalability from laboratory research to industrial applications, are discussed. Overall, this analysis underscores the potential of membrane-based DLE to establish a sustainable and economically viable lithium supply chain that is essential for the clean energy transition.