Methods for the Production of Lithium Carbonate from Lipidolite

Citation

Hopper, Basil (1923) Methods for the Production of Lithium Carbonate from Lipidolite. Bachelor's thesis, California Institute of Technology. doi:10.7907/CCFS-JG79. https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechETD:etd-02082005-164225

Abstract

[Introduction] The object of this investigation has been to determine a method to extract lithium from its ores in order to produce Li₂CO₃ which is used in medicine. Lithium salts command very good prices (averaging about $1.50 per pound) and a simple method of production would form a successful commercial enterprise. Lithium occurs in lepidolite (a lithium mica) and in amblygonite and other moderately rare minerals. In Southern California there are deposits of lepidolite with which this work has been conducted.

The metal belongs to the alkali group but shows many properties characteristic of the alkaline-earths. It acts vigorously with water, hydrogen, nitrogen and oxygen, thus resembling the alkalies. The relative insolubility of the hydroxide, carbonate and phosphate, makes it resemble the alkaline-earths. Lithium gives a very characteristic spectrum which makes it easy to test for traces with a hand spectroscope.

Thesis Files