Scientists working with the financing of a mining company have again found an important resource for the USA. This time, it's hidden in Pennsylvania's gas industry wastewater.
This reservoir of lithium could supply a significant portion of the nation's need for the important element.
Lithium is increasingly in demand in the renewable transition energy sources, especially in batteries of electric cars. Despite this, the USA has only one large lithium mine, which forces the country to import most of the necessary lithium.
The Ministry of Energy seeks to change this situation, planning to ensure domestic lithium production by 2030. However, the expansion of the lithium industry is controversial because of possible negative environmental impacts.
A new study has found that wastewater from a gas industry in Pennsylvania contains large amounts of lithium. This can be a significant source of metal for the country. However, the potential environmental impact and ecological consequences of lithium extraction from wastewater are still unknown.
Demand for lithium is expected to continue to grow in the coming decades, but it is not yet clear how the demands will be met. about lithium and what problems may arise due to its extraction.