Summary:Metso launches a new single-pass lithium carbonate production method using alkaline leaching, delivering battery-grade lithium from spodumene with high efficiency and sustainability....
Introduction
Metso Corporation, a global leader in mineral processing and critical minerals technology, is set to launch an innovative single-pass lithium carbonate production method designed to convert spodumene concentrate directly into battery-grade lithium carbonateMetso. Unveiled in May 2026, this advanced hydrometallurgical alkaline leaching process marks a breakthrough in lithium refining, addressing longstanding industry challenges such as high costs, complex workflows, and harmful by-products. As global demand for battery materials surges, Metso’s new technology positions the company at the forefront of sustainable lithium processing, offering miners a streamlined, cost-effective, and eco-friendly solution for lithium carbonate production.
Core Technology: Single-Pass Alkaline Leaching Process
At the heart of Metso’s innovation lies the soda pressure leaching core, a proprietary alkaline hydrometallurgical technique that replaces traditional acid-based roasting methods. Unlike conventional sulfate roasting, which relies on corrosive sulfuric acid and generates large volumes of sodium sulfate waste, Metso’s process uses sodium carbonate (soda ash) under controlled pressure and temperature to selectively extract lithium from spodumene concentrate.
Table 1: Metso’s New Lithium Carbonate Process – Key Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Process Type | Single-pass hydrometallurgical alkaline leaching |
| Feedstock | Spodumene concentrate (hard rock lithium) |
| Main Product | Battery-grade lithium carbonate (Li₂CO₃) |
| Core Technology | Soda pressure leaching + one-pass carbonation |
| By-Products | Neutralized mineral residue (no sodium sulfate) |
| Lithium Recovery | >90% |
| Key Benefits | Lower CAPEX/OPEX, simplified workflow, sustainable |
The process follows a streamlined six-stage sequence:
Feed Preparation: Spodumene concentrate is mixed with water and sodium carbonate to form a slurry。
Soda Pressure Leaching: The slurry undergoes high-pressure alkaline leaching to selectively dissolve lithium, minimizing impurity extraction。
Solution Purification: Iron, aluminum, magnesium, and other impurities are removed via precipitation and filtration。
Carbonation: Purified lithium solution reacts with CO₂ to form lithium bicarbonate。
Crystallization: Controlled heating precipitates high-purity battery-grade lithium carbonate。
Residue Treatment: Mineral residue is neutralized for safe disposal or potential reuse, eliminating toxic by-products。
Key Advantages Over Traditional Methods
Metso’s single-pass lithium carbonate production method outperforms conventional sulfate roasting across critical metrics, making it a game-changer for lithium miners.
Simplified Workflow: The one-pass design eliminates 3–5 intermediate stages (e.g., acid roasting, neutralization), reducing plant complexity and enabling faster commissioning (30–40% quicker ramp-up)。
Cost Efficiency: Lower capital expenditure (CAPEX) due to reduced equipment needs and 20–25% lower operating costs (OPEX) from minimal chemical consumption and waste handling.
High Purity & Yield: Selective alkaline leaching ensures >99.5% battery-grade lithium carbonate purity, with lithium recovery rates exceeding 90%.
Sustainability: Acid-free and sulfate-free operation eliminates harmful sodium sulfate by-products. Residue is inert and neutralized, reducing environmental impact. Metso is also developing circular metallurgy to regenerate leaching chemicals, further lowering the carbon footprintMetso.
Market Impact & Strategic Significance
The launch of Metso’s new lithium carbonate technology comes at a pivotal moment for the lithium industry, as demand for battery-grade lithium carbonate is projected to grow at a CAGR of 15% through 2030, driven by EV adoption and energy storage expansion. Traditional refining methods face growing scrutiny over environmental harm and high costs, creating a urgent need for sustainable alternatives.
Metso’s innovation strengthens its position as a leading provider of end-to-end lithium processing solutions, complementing its existing lithium hydroxide production technology. For mining operators, the single-pass method de-risks lithium projects by improving profitability, reducing regulatory risks, and aligning with ESG goals. The technology is already being tested with major lithium producers, with full commercial deployment targeted for late 2026Metso.
Conclusion
Metso’s new single-pass lithium carbonate production method represents a transformative leap forward in sustainable lithium refining. By combining soda pressure leaching with one-pass carbonation, the technology delivers high-yield, low-cost, and eco-friendly battery-grade lithium carbonate, addressing critical industry pain points. As the energy transition accelerates, Metso’s innovative process will empower lithium miners to meet growing demand while minimizing environmental impact, solidifying the company’s role as a key enabler of the global clean energy shift. With commercial launch imminent, the industry anticipates this technology to set a new benchmark for lithium carbonate production efficiency and sustainability.
