Development and optimisation of titanium-based lithium-ion sieves through solid-state synthesis for high-efficiency brine lithium recovery

Abstract The growing global demand for lithium, driven by its pivotal role in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems, necessitates the development of innovative and efficient lithium recovery strategies. This study presents an optimisation approach for synthesizing titanium-based lithium-ion sieves (Li₂TiO₃) via a solid-state reaction, targeting enhanced adsorption performance. The effects of calcination temperature, heating rate, and Li/Ti molar ratio on the structural and functional properties of the adsorbent were systematically investigated. The optimal synthesis conditions, Li/Ti molar ratio of 2.0, calcination temperature of 850°C, and heating rate of 9°C/min, yielded an adsorption capacity of approximately 65 mg/g. Advanced characterisation techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analysis, confirmed the high crystallinity, structural integrity, thermal stability, and precise elemental composition of the optimised material. The optimised titanium-based adsorbent outperformed conventional materials, underscoring its potential for scalable lithium recovery applications. These findings provide valuable insights into the relationship between synthesis parameters and adsorption capacity, contributing to the design of high-efficiency adsorbents for sustainable lithium extraction and supporting the transition toward resource-efficient and environmentally responsible energy solutions.