Lithium

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13-Mar-2023: Discovery of Lithium reserve in Jammu and Kashmir

GSI carried out a G3 stage mineral exploration project during Field Season 2020- 21 and 2021-22 in Salal-Haimna areas of Reasi district, Jammu & Kashmir and estimated an inferred resource (G3) of 5.9 million tonnes of lithium ore and the report has been handed over to the Government of Union Territory of J&K.

GSI proposes to carry out more exploration activities in J&K for identifying lithium resources. The estimated value of lithium in J&K will be estimated on completion of further exploration.

Geological Survey of India (GSI) generates baseline geoscience data through mapping, e.g. geological, geochemical, geophysical which is pre-requisite for identifying the potential area for systematic mineral exploration. Based on the mapping data, GSI carries out systematic mineral exploration activities for various major mineral commodities including lithium.

In part of Jammu & Kashmir, as a follow up of lithium exploration in Salal-Haimna areas of Reasi district, GSI has taken up another reconnaissance G4 stage exploration programme on lithium and associated mineral in Panasa – Dugga – Baldhanun – Chakar - Sangarmarg (Saro-da-Bas) area of Reasi district during current field season 2022-23 and the work is in progress.

Based on the mapping outcome more exploration programme on various mineral commodities including lithium will be taken up in future in different parts of the country including Jammu & Kashmir.

11-Feb-2023: GSI discovers lithium in Jammu & Kashmir

The UT of Jammu & Kashmir in India has recently witnessed a groundbreaking achievement by the Geological Survey of India, who have successfully identified Lithium 'inferred' resources (G3) totaling 5.9 million tonnes in the Salal-Haimana area. This significant discovery has the potential to revolutionize the lithium market in the region and beyond.

India is currently dependent on imports, mostly from China, for lithium cells and batteries.

Lithium Resources in J&K

  • GSI established inferred resources (G3) of 5.9 million tonnes in Salal-Haimana area. Inferred resource is estimated with low level of confidence based on limited or uncertain information.
  • Classification is based on United Nations International Framework Classification for Reserves/Resources - Solid Fuels and Mineral Commodities of 1997 (UNFC-1997).

Significance of Discovery

  • Helps India achieve targets of reducing emissions towards net zero by 2070.
  • India estimated to need 27 GW of grid-scale battery energy storage systems by 2030, requiring massive amounts of lithium.
  • Addresses global shortages predicted by World Economic Forum (WEF) and International Energy Agency (IEA).
  • WEF warns of global lithium shortages due to rising demand for EVs and rechargeable batteries, which is estimated to reach 2 billion by 2050.
  • IEA predicts world could face lithium shortages by 2025. 2023 considered a turning point for battery technology, with potential for several improvements to Li-ion technology.

Lithium:

Lithium is a highly reactive metal and one of the lightest elements in the periodic table. It is commonly used in various industries due to its unique properties, such as low density and high electrochemical potential.

Physical and Chemical Properties:

  • Symbol: Li
  • Melting point: 180.54 °C
  • Boiling point: 1,342 °C
  • Density: 0.534 g/cm³
  • Highly reactive with water and air
  • It is the lightest solid element and can float on water.

Uses:

  • Lithium has numerous applications in various fields such as:
  • Batteries: Lithium-ion batteries are used in various electronic devices(laptops, mobiles etc...), electric cars, and other applications.
  • Glass and Ceramics: Lithium is used in the manufacture of heat-resistant glass and ceramics.
  • Pharmaceutical Industry: Lithium is used to treat bipolar disorder and depression.
  • Nuclear Industry: Lithium is used in the production of nuclear weapons and as a coolant in nuclear reactors.
  • Aerospace Industry: Lithium is used in the aerospace industry as a lightweight material for constructing spacecraft.

Sources: Lithium is found in various minerals such as spodumene, lepidolite, and petalite. The largest deposits of lithium are found in South America, Australia, and China. 54% of world's lithium reserves are found in Argentina, Bolivia and Chile. Chile, Argentina, Bolivia form Lithium Triangle. India has potential reserves in Mica belts in Rajasthan, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh; Pegmatite belts in Odisha and Chhattisgarh; Rann of Kutch in Gujarat.

Health and Safety: Lithium is highly reactive and can cause severe burns if it comes in contact with skin or eyes. Inhalation of lithium dust or fumes can cause respiratory problems. Lithium should be handled with care, and proper safety measures should be followed during its use and transportation.

Geological Survey of India (GSI)

  • GSI was established in 1851 to find coal deposits for Railways.
  • It is presently an attached office to Ministry of Mines.
  • It is a repository of geo-science information and geo-scientific organization of international repute.
  • It is headquartered in Kolkata with six regional offices and state units.