ThermIon

The ThermIon project is innovating lithium extraction by means of the ion-pumping technique. Committed to improving electrode material properties and performance, the team is performing electrochemical analysis and modelling. The project’s ambition lies in optimizing efficiency, performance, and long-term stability of the lithium extraction process through advanced theoretical models and rigorous experimental analysis, thereby revolutionizing the future of sustainable energy.

„ThermIon“ is our groundbreaking project that aims to sustainably harness lithium and additional resources from the geothermal aquifers, mainly from the Upper Rhine Graben. Moving beyond traditional resource evaluation techniques, ThermIon is building state-of-the-art schemas based on our electrochemical technique, the ion pumping.

The project’s cornerstone is the development of an environmentally friendly, economically desirable, and highly innovative extraction technology specifically designed for lithium. This process considers the entire value chain: from retrieving the brine, its preliminary treatment, to lithium extraction and brine re-infusion.

Our novel extraction process, the electrochemical ion pumping, is celebrated for its striking selectivity, setting a revolutionary benchmark in the industry. The process will be meticulously tested and evaluated with real geothermal waters from the Grabenneudorf geothermal site. Moreover, project results are adaptable to 13 planned geothermal projects, a testament to the innovative adaptability of the ThermIon project.

Our ultimate goal? To create a scalable blueprint for a larger, commercial-grade lithium extraction plant, primarily intended to provide high-purity lithium for German battery production. With ThermIon, we’re set on a mission for a sustainable future, aiming for a 99.9% purity in our end product, and a yield rate of 70%. Harnessing nature’s power, innovating for the future – that’s ThermIon.

Under the ThermIon project, the role of the ESECS group is pivotal in exploring and innovating the structures of the active particles, with a unique focus on the micro and macro structures of the electrodes. Our objective is a deep dive into the inner workings of material properties and performance, with special attention to lithium intercalation speed and capacity, concentrating on LMO and NiHCF, the electrode materials.

Our team participates extensively across an array of project activities. Our tasks range from conceptualizing a test facility within a geothermal powerhouse’s bypass to comprehensive system analysis.

The development of our materials aims to optimize porosity, shape, and connectivity to the carbon cloth collector. This optimization focuses on boosting performance, enhancing efficiency, and achieving long-term stability. To reach our ambitious goals, we’re harnessing the power of advanced theoretical models coupled with meticulous experimental analysis. As part of the ThermIon project, the ESECS group is forging a path for a sustainable and efficient future.