Lithium

Why in News?

Battery-grade lithium carbonate prices are projected to average around RMB 140,000 per tonne in August, representing a 10.3% month-on-month decline.

About Lithium

Lithium is a soft, silvery-white metal that belongs to Group 1 (alkali metals) of the periodic table.

Properties of Lithium

Lithium has the lowest density of all metals and is the lightest solid element. It reacts vigorously with water and corrodes rapidly in air. It is highly flammable and must be stored under inert conditions, such as in mineral oil or a vacuum.

Occurrence and Distribution

Lithium does not occur naturally as a free metal. It is found in small quantities in igneous rocks and occurs primarily in pegmatitic minerals, such as spodumene and petalite, as well as in saline brines because of its high solubility.

The Lithium Triangle of South America comprises Argentina, Bolivia and Chile. According to the supplied source, these countries collectively account for approximately 50% of lithium deposits.

Applications of Lithium

Rechargeable batteries: Lithium is an important component of rechargeable batteries used in mobile phones, laptops, digital cameras and electric vehicles (EVs).

Lightweight alloys: Lithium is alloyed with aluminium and magnesium to improve strength while reducing weight.

Glass and ceramics: Lithium oxide is used in the manufacture of special glasses and glass ceramics.

Lubricants: Lithium stearate is used as an all-purpose and high-temperature lubricant.

Medicines: Lithium carbonate is used in medicines for treating bipolar disorder, historically referred to as manic depression.