Optimizing Lithium Release and Recovery for Cost-Effective Biomining Processes  

Members: AlkaLi Labs 

Project dates: 2026 – present

This project will develop and validate a scalable microbial process for extracting lithium from produced water, a lithium-rich industrial byproduct generated during oil and gas production. The goal is to create a closed-loop, reusable system that uses engineered yeast to selectively accumulate and recover lithium. Lithium is a critical mineral for energy and modern life, used in batteries, aircraft, lubricants, glass, and more, that is vulnerable to supply chain disruptions. This approach offers a resilient alternative to conventional lithium extraction methods, which are energy-intensive, chemically harsh, and generally harmful to the environment. 

By integrating synthetic biology, fermentation engineering, and bioprocess scale-up technologies, this project will demonstrate a viable alternative to traditional lithium mining. The engineered yeast strains used in this work are designed to take up lithium selectively while remaining viable for reuse across multiple extraction cycles. The team will reduce the cost of biomass production through fermentation optimization, test the system in a custom-built 100L biosorbent reactor, and refine a mild recovery protocol to release the lithium without destroying the cells. Together, these components will enable a bio-based lithium extraction process with lower operating costs and reduced environmental impact. 

Researchers will create a suite of protocols that can be adopted or adapted by BioMADE members working in biomanufacturing, resource recovery, or industrial wastewater treatment. In addition to its technical outputs, the project will also provide valuable workforce training in strain development, pilot-scale operations, and integrated bioprocess design. 

Funding source: U.S. Department of Defense