Lithium extraction using zirconium oxide coated lithium manganese oxide ion-exchange adsorbents

Lithium extraction from sedimentary brines using spinel lithium manganese oxide, Li1.6Mn1.6O4, is challenging because of the presence of dissolved organic compounds, resulting in manganese reduction and loss. Coating the sorbent with a 7.5 nm layer of zirconium dioxide decreased manganese loss by approximately 50%, while not substantially impacting its adsorption capacity and selectivity, thereby increasing its usable life.