|
|
| LITHIUM: A STRATEGIC RESOURCE FOR THE PLANET |
The Salar de Uyuni contains the largest reserves of lithium in the world. Lithium is the lightest of all metals, and has numerous uses in industry and even in medicine. It is used:
 |
To manufacture a stronger, lighter aluminium, which can be used to build lighter aircraft.
|
|
In the ceramics industry, making the product tougher and improving its finish.
|
|
To manufacture highly resistant lubricants.
|
|
In psychiatric medicine, to treat mental disorders.
|
|
Lithium Aluminum vehicle
|
In the last few years, lithium has become symbolic of energy sources that provide an alternative to fossil fuels, in two ways:
|
In the manufacture of batteries. The lithium-based battery is the lightest and highest-capacity battery ever developed. Because the world’s oil resources are running out, a couple of years from now cars that run on fossil fuels will be replaced by electric vehicles all over the world. This means that immense quantities of lithium will be required to make rechargeable batteries.
|
|
In nuclear fusion. This technology is currently being developed, and several countries have made huge joint investments in it. Nuclear fusion will produce electricity safely and with a very low impact on the environment. Small quantities of water and lithium are required as fuel for the nuclear reaction.
|
| |
Lithium is mainly sold in the form of lithium carbonate, which currently fetches a price of about US$7 per kilogramme.
|
Nuclear reactor
|
|
|
|
