Minerals explained 58--Lithium minerals

摘要

Lithium is a critical element in modern technology, and lithium minerals will play a key role in the fight against climate change. However, the demand for lithium-ion batteries is dependent on an expanding supply of primary resources. Lithium occurs in limited amounts on the Earth in a surprising diversity of mineral species, from pyroxenes to amphiboles, phyllosilicates to phosphates. This article examines the principal mineral groups likely to be a target for future exploitation.