Jiwoong Yang, a molecular chemist at the University of Chicago, is working on an efficient way to extract lithium, a crucial component used in electric vehicle batteries, from low-concentration solutions. He has identified a material, iron phosphate, that can selectively extract lithium ions from the brine left over from geothermal and desalination processes, fracking wastewater, and seawater. This material has the unique property of forming stronger bonds with lithium ions than with competing sodium ions, allowing it to efficiently capture lithium in its lattice of channels. Once the material is full of ions, it is moved to freshwater where electric currents are applied to expel the ions and create solid lithium hydroxide, used in EV batteries.
Yang’s research has made significant progress in efficient lithium extraction from low-concentration sources, which could potentially provide a huge supply of lithium from previously untapped sources. The material’s high selectivity for lithium ions allows for a more efficient extraction process, paving the way for new applications in various areas of research involving ion movement in porous spaces. In addition to lithium extraction, Yang’s team is also working on developing methods for separating rare earth elements, which are essential for modern technologies but difficult to separate due to their similar size and chemistry.
Yang’s work focuses on basic materials science, accumulating knowledge to make predictions and discoveries in the field. The deep understanding of materials and ions behavior allows her team to optimize the material’s performance and develop new methods for resource extraction. This innovative approach has caught the attention of experts like Steven Chu, a physicist at Stanford University, who recognizes the potential of Yang’s research to make practical impacts in the field. Despite the challenges and complexity of the research, Yang finds joy in solving the puzzle of material science and is dedicated to pursuing this career for a lifetime.
As a mother and researcher, Yang balances her passion for science with spending quality time with her children. On weekends, she engages in fun activities like playing Legos or riding bikes with her kids and is in the process of teaching them about the solar system and photosynthesis. Her goal is to combine fun and science in her children’s learning experience, illustrating her commitment to both her family and her research work. Through her dedication and innovative research approach, Yang is making valuable contributions to the field of materials science and resource extraction, with the potential to impact various industries and technologies.
