Li–air chemistry inspired electrodialysis for direct lithium carbonate production from seawater

The global shift to renewable energy has intensified demand for lithium-ion batteries. Conventional lithium sources and extraction methods—such as brine evaporation and ore roasting—are time- and resource-intensive, geographically constrained, and environmentally damaging, underscoring the need for more sustainable resources and extraction strategies. Here we report an electrodialysis-based approach for direct lithium carbonate extraction from seawater, using ambient carbon dioxide as the carbon source. The method integrates a solid-state lithium-conducting membrane with Li–air chemistry, enabling lithium enrichment and carbonate formation in a single step without added precipitants. The Li–air configuration imparts intrinsic ion selectivity via thermodynamically driven displacement reactions. Experimental results confirm the production of lithium carbonate (93.8% purity) with an applied voltage below 2 V, while reducing chemical input and energy consumption compared to conventional processes. This work has the potential to provide a low-impact route for accessing lithium resources and contributes to the sustainability of future battery supply chains. Conventional lithium extraction is resource-intensive and environmentally damaging. Here, authors demonstrate an electrodialysis strategy coupling a solid lithium-conducting membrane with Li-air chemistry to directly produce high-purity lithium carbonate from seawater with reduced energy and chemical inputs.