Lithium Can Be Gold Of The Future

Any material that is termed or compared to gold seems to have exclusive importance. Recently, Lithium is one such metal that has been compared to Gold in several instances. Why? Well, the credit goes to the immense demand for electric vehicles across the world. Lithium is a metal used in Lithium-ion batteries, which are highly significant to promote and ensure electric mobility across the globe. As people are becoming conscious about the environment, they are seeking alternatives to polluting motor engines. Lithium is the gold that will probably give us the gift of sustainability. 

Not just companies like Tesla and LG Chem are taking Lithium seriously, but nations and their governments like the USA are also counting on it. In terms of electric vehicles, Lithium is considered among the crucial metals, which are Cobalt, Nickel, and Graphite. However, the rest of the metals are being researched to be replaced. However, Lithium is one such metal with undiscovered chances of replacement. This is why scientific research reflects an increase of 408% is expected in the production of Lithium carbonate in comparison to its production in 2016 . 

The Why & How? 

The main aspect that turns Lithium into gold is the LIB i.e. Lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are transforming the world of clean energy and its electrification. They are not just effective for Evs, but in the generation electricity industry too. Using Lithium in the Evs enables greater performance along with a higher range. As the market of electric vehicles is on the verge of expansion, the demand and significance of lithium have accelerated.

On the other hand, LIB’s use in creating a major stock of energy caters to environmentally-friendly grid installations. Lithium can support building-level energy storage creating an alternative to gas and coal power. Moreover, it will be helpful to harness and use the power of wind and sun that demands higher storage for balancing. Lithium batteries will deliver resilience at not just building stage, but at the level of society and community also .    Well, that shows how and why Lithium is being referred to as gold or maybe, green gold. 

Is Lithium Replaceable? 

Another important question that comes to mind is whether Lithium is replaceable. Now, before moving on to its substitute options, you must know that Lithium is not just useful for electricity or vehicles. Its applications incorporate computers, phones, etc. 

Moreover, it’s anticipated uses of running wind turbines and solar panels. Currently, 74% of Lithium is being used for battery production . Now, let’s check out which metal or material has the capacity for such massive replacement. 

1. Sodium: Salt or sodium is the first cousin of Lithium. As a result, researchers are looking for ways to integrate them into batteries. In comparison to Lithium, sodium is heavy, though both the elements have almost similar chemistry. However, the current researches show that the electric charge carried by sodium is not effective to support EV batteries.