Properties and Overview of Lithium

Overview:

Lithium (Li) a soft, silvery-white alkali metal with the chemical symbol Li and atomic number 3, is a marvel of nature. It holds the title of being the lightest metal and the least dense solid element, distinguishing itself among the alkali metals. Discovered in 1817 by Johan August Arfvedson while he was analyzing petalite ore, lithium was later isolated by William Thomas Brande and Sir Humphry Davy through electrolysis of lithium oxide. Physically, lithium is characterized by its softness and lightweight. Its density is about 0.534g/cm³, about half that of water. Lithium has a relatively low melting point for metal, at 180.5°C and a boiling point of 1,342°C. These properties make it easily deformable and reactive. Lithium also exhibits high thermal conductivity and has the highest specific heat capacity of any solid element, contributing to its effectiveness in heat transfer applications.
Chemically, lithium is highly reactive and flammable, particularly when exposed to air or water. It reacts with water to form lithium hydroxide and hydrogen gas, a reaction that is exothermic and can be explosive in the right conditions. When exposed to air, lithium tarnishes quickly due to a black oxide layer forming on its surface. In terms of oxidation states, lithium typically forms a +1 cation (Li+), which is the only stable oxidation state for this element. Its compounds, such as lithium carbonate (Li₂CO₃), lithium chloride (LiCl), and lithium hydroxide (LiOH), are widely used in various industrial applications.
When it comes to lithium, safety is paramount. Due to its reactivity, handling lithium in its metallic form requires it to be stored in an inert atmosphere or under mineral oil to prevent it from reacting with moisture or oxygen in the air. While lithium-ion batteries are generally safe, they can pose risks if damaged, overcharged, or exposed to high temperatures, potentially leading to fire or explosion. Proper handling, storage, and disposal of lithium batteries are essential to mitigate these risks. In industrial settings, precautions must be taken to avoid exposure to lithium dust or compounds, as inhalation or ingestion can lead to health issues such as respiratory irritation or chemical burns.

Production:

Lithium production primarily involves the extraction from brine pools and mineral ores, such as spodumene, petalite, and lepidolite. Brine extraction, the most common method, involves pumping lithium-rich brine from underground reservoirs to the surface, which is concentrated through solar evaporation. The lithium is then extracted from the brine using chemical processes, typically involving lithium carbonate or hydroxide precipitation. Hard rock mining, which involves extracting lithium-containing minerals, is another method that is more energy-intensive than brine extraction. Major lithium-producing countries include Australia, Chile, China, and Argentina, which account for most global lithium production.

Applications:

Lithium's applications are as diverse as they are impressive, expanding significantly with technological advancements. One of its most significant uses is in the production of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which power a wide range of devices, from smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles. These batteries are favored for their high energy density, lightweight, and long cycle life, making them essential in the transition to renewable energy technologies. Lithium's versatility is further demonstrated in its use in the manufacture of glass and ceramics, where it acts as a flux to reduce the melting point of silica, thus improving the properties of the final product. Additionally, lithium compounds are used in lubricating greases, pharmaceuticals (particularly in the treatment of bipolar disorder), and air purification systems, where lithium hydroxide is used to absorb carbon dioxide.

Summary:

Lithium is a highly reactive, lightweight metal with crucial applications in modern technology, particularly in energy storage through lithium-ion batteries. Its production from brine pools and mineral ores has become increasingly important as demand for lithium continues to rise, driven by the growth of renewable energy and electric vehicles. While generally safe when used appropriately, the reactive nature of lithium requires careful handling and storage to prevent accidents and ensure safety in both industrial and consumer applications.

See a comprehensive list of atomic, electrical, mechanical, physical and thermal properties for lithium below: