Resumen

ZAMORA E, Gerardo; GUTIERREZ V., Jorge  y  MEZA D, Ruth. Análisis técnico, económico y ambiental de la aplicación de métodos de extracción directa de litio para las Salmueras del salar de Coipasa: Comparación entre absorción e intercambio iónico. REV. MAMYM [online]. 2025, vol.10, n.2, pp.49-68. ISSN 2519-5352.

ABSTRACT In the Bolivian Altiplano lies the Coipasa Salt Flat (68°8'W, 19°23'S), considered the second largest salt flat in Bolivia (2,500 km², 3,656 m.a.s.l.) and located northwest of the Uyuni Salt Flat. The Coipasa Salt Flat holds major significance as a strategic development resource for the Department of Oruro in Bolivia. This research study focuses on the analysis of Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) methods applicable to the brine of the Coipasa Salt Flat, with emphasis on two emerging technologies: lithium absorption using sorbents (adsorbents) and ion-exchange processes employing resins or ionic sorbents. The study examines the theoretical foundations, operational feasibility, and the technical, economic, environmental, social, and energy-related challenges, as well as issues related to the purity of the final lithium product. It also assesses the feasibility of implementing these methods in Coipasa, taking into account the geochemical characteristics of the brine. A methodology for pilot testing is proposed, potential outcomes are evaluated, and the relative advantages of each method are discussed within the local context.

Palabras clave : Coipasa Salt Flat; Direct Lithium Extraction from brines; DLE for Coipasa brines..

        · resumen en Español     · texto en Español     · Español ( pdf )