A novel two-step adsorption-flotation process applied to the efficient extraction and precise separation of Rb⁺ and Cs⁺ from lithium-extraction tailings

Rb⁺ and Cs⁺ are important components of lepidolite lithium-extraction tailings. However, efficient extraction and separation of Rb⁺ and Cs⁺ are difficult. We developed a two-step adsorption-flotation strategy for extraction and separation of Rb⁺ and Cs⁺. This new strategy enabled extraction of Rb⁺ and Cs⁺ from lithium-extraction tailings with efficiencies >99% and the Cs⁺/Rb⁺ separation ratio was 20:1. These findings will shed light on the efficient extraction and precise separation of Rb⁺ and Cs⁺ in liquid minerals. (author)