3
Li
Lithium

Lithium

Element 3 • Alkali Metal
Atomic Mass 6.940000
Electron Config [He] 2s¹
Group/Period 1/2

Table of Contents

Overview Physical Properties Special Properties Applications Common Uses Natural Occurrence Discovery Safety Information Frequently Asked Questions

Overview

ANALYZED

The Revolutionary Battery Metal

Lithium, the lightest metal on Earth, has revolutionized modern technology and medicine. Named from the Greek "lithos" meaning stone, this silvery-white alkali metal was first discovered in 1817 by Johan August Arfwedson in the mineral petalite. Despite being solid, Lithium is so light it floats on water - though it reacts violently upon contact.

Unique Physical Properties

Lithium exhibits extraordinary characteristics that set it apart from other metals. With a density of only 0.534 g/cm³, it's half as dense as water. It has the highest specific heat capacity of any solid element and the greatest temperature range between melting and boiling points of any element. Fresh Lithium has a bright metallic luster but quickly tarnishes in air, forming a gray oxide coating.

Chemical Reactivity

As the first alkali metal, Lithium is highly reactive but less so than other group 1 elements. It reacts with water to produce Lithium hydroxide and hydrogen gas: 2Li + 2H₂O → 2LiOH + H₂. Unlike other alkali metals, Lithium forms a stable nitride (Li₃N) when exposed to nitrogen gas, and its compounds often show covalent character due to the small size and high charge density of Li⁺ ions.

Biological Significance

Lithium plays a crucial role in neurochemistry and mental health. Lithium salts have been used to treat bipolar disorder since 1949, making it one of the oldest psychiatric medications still in use. The metal crosses the blood-brain barrier and affects neurotransmitter function, particularly serotonin and norepinephrine pathways.

Physical Properties

MEASURED
Atomic Mass
6.940000 u
Density
0.5340 g/cm³
Melting Point
453.65 °C
Boiling Point
1615.00 °C
Electronegativity
0.98
Electron Configuration
[He] 2s¹
Ionization Energy
5.39 kJ/mol

Special Properties

CLASSIFIED
HIGHLY REACTIVE Reacts violently with air/water
Earth Abundance: 2.00e-5
Universe Abundance: 6.00e-10

Applications

CATALOGUED

Revolutionary Applications

🔋 Energy Storage Revolution

  • Lithium-Ion Batteries: Tesla Model S contains 7,104 Lithium-ion cells with 63 kg of Lithium compounds
  • Consumer Electronics: Every smartphone, laptop, and tablet relies on Lithium-ion technology
  • Electric Vehicle Batteries: BMW i3, Nissan Leaf, and Chevy Bolt use Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO₄) cathodes
  • Grid Energy Storage: Tesla Powerpack and Megapack systems store renewable energy using Lithium-ion arrays
  • Primary Lithium Batteries: Non-rechargeable Lithium metal batteries power pacemakers and smoke detectors

💊 Medical & Pharmaceutical Applications

  • Bipolar Disorder Treatment: Lithium carbonate (Li₂CO₃) and Lithium citrate prescribed to 1+ million patients globally
  • Depression Treatment: Augmentation therapy with SSRIs for treatment-resistant depression
  • Cluster Headache Prevention: Lithium carbonate 300-900mg daily reduces frequency and intensity
  • Suicide Prevention: Studies show 13-fold reduction in suicide risk among Lithium users
  • Neuroprotection: Research indicates potential for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease treatment

🏭 Industrial Manufacturing

  • Glass & Ceramics: Lithium oxide (Li₂O) reduces melting temperature and thermal expansion in Pyrex and Corning cookware
  • Aluminum Production: Lithium fluoride flux improves conductivity and reduces energy consumption by 10-15%
  • Lubricating Greases: Lithium stearate creates high-temperature greases for aircraft and automotive applications
  • Air Purification: Lithium hydroxide (LiOH) removes CO₂ in spacecraft and submarines: LiOH + CO₂ → LiHCO₃
  • Synthetic Rubber: Butyllithium initiates polymerization for high-performance tires and synthetic rubber

⚗️ Advanced Chemical Applications

  • Nuclear Fusion: Lithium-6 breeds tritium for fusion reactors: ⁶Li + neutron → ³H + ⁴He
  • Organic Synthesis: Organolithium reagents (like n-butyllithium) create carbon-carbon bonds in pharmaceutical manufacturing
  • Dehumidification: Lithium chloride (LiCl) absorbs moisture in industrial drying systems
  • Metallurgy: Lithium additions to aluminum and magnesium alloys improve strength and corrosion resistance

Common Uses

INDEXED

Revolutionary Applications

🔋 Energy Storage Revolution

  • Lithium-Ion Batteries: Tesla Model S contains 7,104 Lithium-ion cells with 63 kg of Lithium compounds
  • Consumer Electronics: Every smartphone, laptop, and tablet relies on Lithium-ion technology
  • Electric Vehicle Batteries: BMW i3, Nissan Leaf, and Chevy Bolt use Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO₄) cathodes
  • Grid Energy Storage: Tesla Powerpack and Megapack systems store renewable energy using Lithium-ion arrays
  • Primary Lithium Batteries: Non-rechargeable Lithium metal batteries power pacemakers and smoke detectors

💊 Medical & Pharmaceutical Applications

  • Bipolar Disorder Treatment: Lithium carbonate (Li₂CO₃) and Lithium citrate prescribed to 1+ million patients globally
  • Depression Treatment: Augmentation therapy with SSRIs for treatment-resistant depression
  • Cluster Headache Prevention: Lithium carbonate 300-900mg daily reduces frequency and intensity
  • Suicide Prevention: Studies show 13-fold reduction in suicide risk among Lithium users
  • Neuroprotection: Research indicates potential for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease treatment

🏭 Industrial Manufacturing

  • Glass & Ceramics: Lithium oxide (Li₂O) reduces melting temperature and thermal expansion in Pyrex and Corning cookware
  • Aluminum Production: Lithium fluoride flux improves conductivity and reduces energy consumption by 10-15%
  • Lubricating Greases: Lithium stearate creates high-temperature greases for aircraft and automotive applications
  • Air Purification: Lithium hydroxide (LiOH) removes CO₂ in spacecraft and submarines: LiOH + CO₂ → LiHCO₃
  • Synthetic Rubber: Butyllithium initiates polymerization for high-performance tires and synthetic rubber

⚗️ Advanced Chemical Applications

  • Nuclear Fusion: Lithium-6 breeds tritium for fusion reactors: ⁶Li + neutron → ³H + ⁴He
  • Organic Synthesis: Organolithium reagents (like n-butyllithium) create carbon-carbon bonds in pharmaceutical manufacturing
  • Dehumidification: Lithium chloride (LiCl) absorbs moisture in industrial drying systems
  • Metallurgy: Lithium additions to aluminum and magnesium alloys improve strength and corrosion resistance

Natural Occurrence

SURVEYED

Global Sources & Extraction Methods

🏔️ Mineral Deposits

Lithium occurs in several mineral forms, each requiring different extraction techniques:

Hard Rock Sources

  • Spodumene (LiAlSi₂O₆): 5-8% Li₂O content - major source in Australia, Canada
  • Petalite (Li[AlSi₄O₁₀]): 2-5% Li₂O - first Lithium mineral discovered
  • Lepidolite (mica): 3-7% Li₂O - often contains rubidium and cesium
  • Extraction Process: 1050°C roasting converts spodumene to β-form, then acid leaching and precipitation

Brine Sources

  • Salar de Atacama (Chile): World's largest, 2,800 ppm Lithium concentration
  • Salar de Uyuni (Bolivia): 50% of world's reserves, challenging extraction conditions
  • Clayton Valley (Nevada): Only operating Lithium brine facility in North America
  • Extraction Process: Solar evaporation concentrates brine over 12-18 months from 0.2% to 6% Li₂CO₃

🌊 Advanced Extraction Technologies

Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE)

  • Selective Ion Exchange: Crown ethers and specialized resins selectively capture Li⁺ ions
  • Membrane Separation: Nanofiltration membranes separate Lithium from other salts
  • Advantages: Faster processing (hours vs. months), higher recovery rates (>90%)
  • Applications: Geothermal brines, oilfield brines, and recycling applications

Geothermal Sources

  • Salton Sea (California): 200-400 ppm Lithium in geothermal brines
  • Cornish Lithium (UK): Extracting Lithium from geothermal energy production
  • Process Integration: Combined Lithium extraction and renewable energy generation

♻️ Recycling & Sustainability

  • Battery Recycling: Umicore and Li-Cycle recover >95% Lithium from spent batteries
  • Hydrometallurgical Process: Acid leaching followed by precipitation and purification
  • Pyrometallurgical Route: High-temperature smelting recovers Lithium compounds
  • Circular Economy: Closed-loop recycling reduces mining pressure and environmental impact

🌍 Global Production

Major Producing Countries (2023):

  • Australia: 61,000 tonnes (55% of global production) - primarily spodumene
  • Chile: 39,000 tonnes (35%) - brine extraction from Atacama Desert
  • China: 19,000 tonnes (17%) - mixed hard rock and brine sources
  • Argentina: 6,200 tonnes (6%) - brine operations in Salar del Hombre Muerto
  • Zimbabwe: 2,300 tonnes (2%) - pegmatite mining operations

Discovery

ARCHIVED
1817
Johan August Arfwedson

Safety Information

CRITICAL

Comprehensive Safety Guidelines

⚠️ Physical & Chemical Hazards

warning">

FLAMMABLE METAL - WATER REACTIVE

  • Pyrophoric: Finely divided Lithium ignites spontaneously in air
  • Water Reaction: 2Li + 2H₂O → 2LiOH + H₂ + heat (vigorous, potentially explosive)
  • Hydrogen Generation: Reaction produces flammable hydrogen gas
  • Caustic Products: Forms highly alkaline Lithium hydroxide (pH >12)

🛡️ OSHA Exposure Limits

  • No established PEL for metallic Lithium (insufficient toxicity data)
  • Lithium Compounds: No specific OSHA limits, follow general metal working standards
  • Medical Monitoring: Required for workers with regular Lithium compound exposure
  • Therapeutic Range: 0.
6-1.2 mEq/L blood levels for bipolar treatment
  • Toxicity Threshold: >1.
    5 mEq/L can cause severe neurological symptoms

    • 🧤 Personal Protective Equipment

    • Respiratory Protection: NIOSH-approved dust mask for Lithium powder handling
    • Eye Protection: Chemical splash goggles and face shield when handling reactive forms
    • Skin Protection: Neoprene or butyl rubber gloves (PVC ineffective against organic Lithium)
    • Clothing: Fire-resistant clothing for metallic Lithium handling
    • Emergency Equipment: Emergency shower and eyewash stations within 25 feet

    📦 Storage & Handling Requirements

    • Metallic Lithium: Store under mineral oil or inert atmosphere (argon/nitrogen)
    • Lithium Compounds: Dry, cool storage away from acids and oxidizers
    • Fire Suppression: Class D fire extinguishers (copper powder, graphite powder, or sand)
    • Never Use Water: Water intensifies Lithium fires and increases hydrogen production
    • Segregation: Separate from halogens, acids, and strong oxidizers by >6 meters

    🚨 Emergency Response Procedures

    Lithium Fire:

    • DO NOT use water, foam, or CO₂ - use Class D extinguishing agents only
    • Smother with dry sand, graphite powder, or specialized Lithium fire extinguisher
    • Evacuate area if large quantities involved
    • Allow small fires to burn out if no exposure risk

    Skin/Eye Contact:

    • Remove contaminated clothing immediately
    • Flush affected areas with copious amounts of water for 15+ minutes
    • Do not attempt to neutralize alkaline Lithium hydroxide burns
    • Seek immediate medical attention for any Lithium metal contact

    Inhalation Exposure:

    • Move victim to fresh air immediately
    • Monitor for respiratory irritation or pulmonary edema
    • Provide supplemental oxygen if trained and available
    • Medical evaluation required for any significant exposure

    Medical

    Toxicity:

    • Early Signs: Nausea, diarrhea, tremor, drowsiness
    • Severe Toxicity: Confusion, seizures, kidney damage, cardiac arrhythmias
    • Treatment: Discontinue Lithium, increase fluid intake, monitor electrolytes
    • Hemodialysis: Required for severe poisoning (>4.
    0 mEq/L blood levels)

    ⚠️ Special Workplace Considerations

    • Battery Manufacturing: Implement exposure monitoring for Lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF₆)
    • Medical Facilities: Regular blood level monitoring for healthcare workers handling Lithium medications
    • Research Labs: Specialized training for organolithium reagent handling
    • Waste Management: Lithium metal waste requires specialized disposal - never discard in regular trash

    Knowledge Database

    Essential information about Lithium (Li)

    Lithium is unique due to its atomic number of 3 and belongs to the Alkali Metal category. With an atomic mass of 6.940000, it exhibits distinctive properties that make it valuable for various applications.

    Its electron configuration ([He] 2s¹) determines its chemical behavior and bonding patterns.

    Lithium has several important physical properties:

    Density: 0.5340 g/cm³

    Melting Point: 453.65 K (181°C)

    Boiling Point: 1615.00 K (1342°C)

    State at Room Temperature: Solid

    Atomic Radius: 152 pm

    Lithium has various important applications in modern technology and industry:

    Revolutionary Applications

    🔋 Energy Storage Revolution

    • Lithium-Ion Batteries: Tesla Model S contains 7,104 Lithium-ion cells with 63 kg of Lithium compounds
    • Consumer Electronics: Every smartphone, laptop, and tablet relies on Lithium-ion technology
    • Electric Vehicle Batteries: BMW i3, Nissan Leaf, and Chevy Bolt use Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO₄) cathodes
    • Grid Energy Storage: Tesla Powerpack and Megapack systems store renewable energy using Lithium-ion arrays
    • Primary Lithium Batteries: Non-rechargeable Lithium metal batteries power pacemakers and smoke detectors

    💊 Medical & Pharmaceutical Applications

    • Bipolar Disorder Treatment: Lithium carbonate (Li₂CO₃) and Lithium citrate prescribed to 1+ million patients globally
    • Depression Treatment: Augmentation therapy with SSRIs for treatment-resistant depression
    • Cluster Headache Prevention: Lithium carbonate 300-900mg daily reduces frequency and intensity
    • Suicide Prevention: Studies show 13-fold reduction in suicide risk among Lithium users
    • Neuroprotection: Research indicates potential for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease treatment

    🏭 Industrial Manufacturing

    • Glass & Ceramics: Lithium oxide (Li₂O) reduces melting temperature and thermal expansion in Pyrex and Corning cookware
    • Aluminum Production: Lithium fluoride flux improves conductivity and reduces energy consumption by 10-15%
    • Lubricating Greases: Lithium stearate creates high-temperature greases for aircraft and automotive applications
    • Air Purification: Lithium hydroxide (LiOH) removes CO₂ in spacecraft and submarines: LiOH + CO₂ → LiHCO₃
    • Synthetic Rubber: Butyllithium initiates polymerization for high-performance tires and synthetic rubber

    ⚗️ Advanced Chemical Applications

    • Nuclear Fusion: Lithium-6 breeds tritium for fusion reactors: ⁶Li + neutron → ³H + ⁴He
    • Organic Synthesis: Organolithium reagents (like n-butyllithium) create carbon-carbon bonds in pharmaceutical manufacturing
    • Dehumidification: Lithium chloride (LiCl) absorbs moisture in industrial drying systems
    • Metallurgy: Lithium additions to aluminum and magnesium alloys improve strength and corrosion resistance
    1817
    Johan August Arfwedson

    Discovered by: Johan August Arfwedson

    Year of Discovery: 1817

    Global Sources & Extraction Methods

    🏔️ Mineral Deposits

    Lithium occurs in several mineral forms, each requiring different extraction techniques:

    Hard Rock Sources

    • Spodumene (LiAlSi₂O₆): 5-8% Li₂O content - major source in Australia, Canada
    • Petalite (Li[AlSi₄O₁₀]): 2-5% Li₂O - first Lithium mineral discovered
    • Lepidolite (mica): 3-7% Li₂O - often contains rubidium and cesium
    • Extraction Process: 1050°C roasting converts spodumene to β-form, then acid leaching and precipitation

    Brine Sources

    • Salar de Atacama (Chile): World's largest, 2,800 ppm Lithium concentration
    • Salar de Uyuni (Bolivia): 50% of world's reserves, challenging extraction conditions
    • Clayton Valley (Nevada): Only operating Lithium brine facility in North America
    • Extraction Process: Solar evaporation concentrates brine over 12-18 months from 0.2% to 6% Li₂CO₃

    🌊 Advanced Extraction Technologies

    Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE)

    • Selective Ion Exchange: Crown ethers and specialized resins selectively capture Li⁺ ions
    • Membrane Separation: Nanofiltration membranes separate Lithium from other salts
    • Advantages: Faster processing (hours vs. months), higher recovery rates (>90%)
    • Applications: Geothermal brines, oilfield brines, and recycling applications

    Geothermal Sources

    • Salton Sea (California): 200-400 ppm Lithium in geothermal brines
    • Cornish Lithium (UK): Extracting Lithium from geothermal energy production
    • Process Integration: Combined Lithium extraction and renewable energy generation

    ♻️ Recycling & Sustainability

    • Battery Recycling: Umicore and Li-Cycle recover >95% Lithium from spent batteries
    • Hydrometallurgical Process: Acid leaching followed by precipitation and purification
    • Pyrometallurgical Route: High-temperature smelting recovers Lithium compounds
    • Circular Economy: Closed-loop recycling reduces mining pressure and environmental impact

    🌍 Global Production

    Major Producing Countries (2023):

    • Australia: 61,000 tonnes (55% of global production) - primarily spodumene
    • Chile: 39,000 tonnes (35%) - brine extraction from Atacama Desert
    • China: 19,000 tonnes (17%) - mixed hard rock and brine sources
    • Argentina: 6,200 tonnes (6%) - brine operations in Salar del Hombre Muerto
    • Zimbabwe: 2,300 tonnes (2%) - pegmatite mining operations

    Earth's Abundance: 2.00e-5

    Universe Abundance: 6.00e-10

    ⚠️ Danger: Lithium is highly reactive and can react violently with air, water, or other substances. Requires specialized storage and handling.

    Comprehensive Safety Guidelines

    ⚠️ Physical & Chemical Hazards

    warning">

    FLAMMABLE METAL - WATER REACTIVE

    • Pyrophoric: Finely divided Lithium ignites spontaneously in air
    • Water Reaction: 2Li + 2H₂O → 2LiOH + H₂ + heat (vigorous, potentially explosive)
    • Hydrogen Generation: Reaction produces flammable hydrogen gas
    • Caustic Products: Forms highly alkaline Lithium hydroxide (pH >12)

    🛡️ OSHA Exposure Limits

    • No established PEL for metallic Lithium (insufficient toxicity data)
    • Lithium Compounds: No specific OSHA limits, follow general metal working standards
    • Medical Monitoring: Required for workers with regular Lithium compound exposure
    • Therapeutic Range: 0.
    6-1.2 mEq/L blood levels for bipolar treatment
  • Toxicity Threshold: >1.
    5 mEq/L can cause severe neurological symptoms

    • 🧤 Personal Protective Equipment

    • Respiratory Protection: NIOSH-approved dust mask for Lithium powder handling
    • Eye Protection: Chemical splash goggles and face shield when handling reactive forms
    • Skin Protection: Neoprene or butyl rubber gloves (PVC ineffective against organic Lithium)
    • Clothing: Fire-resistant clothing for metallic Lithium handling
    • Emergency Equipment: Emergency shower and eyewash stations within 25 feet

    📦 Storage & Handling Requirements

    • Metallic Lithium: Store under mineral oil or inert atmosphere (argon/nitrogen)
    • Lithium Compounds: Dry, cool storage away from acids and oxidizers
    • Fire Suppression: Class D fire extinguishers (copper powder, graphite powder, or sand)
    • Never Use Water: Water intensifies Lithium fires and increases hydrogen production
    • Segregation: Separate from halogens, acids, and strong oxidizers by >6 meters

    🚨 Emergency Response Procedures

    Lithium Fire:

    • DO NOT use water, foam, or CO₂ - use Class D extinguishing agents only
    • Smother with dry sand, graphite powder, or specialized Lithium fire extinguisher
    • Evacuate area if large quantities involved
    • Allow small fires to burn out if no exposure risk

    Skin/Eye Contact:

    • Remove contaminated clothing immediately
    • Flush affected areas with copious amounts of water for 15+ minutes
    • Do not attempt to neutralize alkaline Lithium hydroxide burns
    • Seek immediate medical attention for any Lithium metal contact

    Inhalation Exposure:

    • Move victim to fresh air immediately
    • Monitor for respiratory irritation or pulmonary edema
    • Provide supplemental oxygen if trained and available
    • Medical evaluation required for any significant exposure

    Medical

    Toxicity:

    • Early Signs: Nausea, diarrhea, tremor, drowsiness
    • Severe Toxicity: Confusion, seizures, kidney damage, cardiac arrhythmias
    • Treatment: Discontinue Lithium, increase fluid intake, monitor electrolytes
    • Hemodialysis: Required for severe poisoning (>4.
    0 mEq/L blood levels)

    ⚠️ Special Workplace Considerations

    • Battery Manufacturing: Implement exposure monitoring for Lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF₆)
    • Medical Facilities: Regular blood level monitoring for healthcare workers handling Lithium medications
    • Research Labs: Specialized training for organolithium reagent handling
    • Waste Management: Lithium metal waste requires specialized disposal - never discard in regular trash

    Related Elements

    1
    H
    Hydrogen
    11
    Na
    Sodium
    19
    K
    Potassium
    37
    Rb
    Rubidium
    55
    Cs
    Cesium
    87
    Fr
    Francium
    Previous Helium Periodic Table Next Beryllium