Polymeric materials and methods for selective ion separation or transport
AssigneesEnergy Exploration Technologies, Inc., Board of Regents, The University of Texas System
InventorsKevin Kruschka REIMUND, Richelle LYNDON, Amit PATWARDHAN, Teague EGAN, Benny Dean FREEMAN
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Abstract
Membrane materials and methods are disclosed for selectively separating or transporting ions in liquid media. In embodiments, the membranes comprise cellulose acetate polymer films having high cation, monovalent/divalent, and/or Li+/Mg2+ selectivity. Systems and methods for use of such membranes, including the direct extraction of lithium (DLE) from natural brines and other resources, also are disclosed.
Claims27
An ion selective membrane comprising an isotropic and nonporous polymer film, the film having a thickness in the range of 0.1 to 100 microns, a density in the range of 0.9 to 1.4, a Tg in the range of 25 to 450° C., and a Li/Mg selectivity in the range of 50 to 1000.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.