Leave it in the ground.
this post was submitted on 10 Sep 2023
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So we can continue to use China/Bolivia's slave labor to get lithium instead?
We don't need lithium batteries for electric busses. Cities have had electric lines above streets to power electric busses for decades.
Same for electric trains.
Want to replace fossil fuels?
You have two options. Nuclear, or renewables.
Renewables, however, generally don't produce consistent energy output. So, you need a way to store the surplus, and release it at night time.
The most effective way of storing this energy, is currently pumped hydro. However, it has very specific geographical restrictions, and isn't an option in most cases.
The other option, is lithium, until a better alternative is produced.
As well, you need to replace fossil fuel usage for vehicles. The only current suitable alternative with an "OK" energy density, charge rate, and output capacity, is lithium based technologies. Typically uses Li-ion, or LiFePO4.
Have a cell phone? Its powered with lithium batteries. All cell phones, are powered with lithium. Typically LiPO, or Li-ion.
One day, this will change, but, until that day, lithium is needed.
Sigh... while "good news", I really hope this doesn't put the push to recycle lithium batteries on the back burner.
It could also be really really small. It could also be capable of feeling and thinking.
The little lithium deposit that could
Oh! 😳 sorry man! We found a family of sea skunks living in that part of the fossilized forest. Plus it's where they buried Fred. Nah. You'll have to go dig down in Bolivia.
Its going to mean nothing unless its easy to seperate from the rest of the sediment.