Lime’s role in the energy transition: supporting non-ferrous metallurgy
As the world accelerates its shift toward cleaner energy, the demand for non-ferrous metals - such as lithium, copper, nickel, and cobalt - is rapidly increasing. These metals are critical for enabling distributed energy generation, transmission, storage, and the expanding electric vehicle (EV) sector. At Lhoist, our lime, dolime, and mineral solutions play a vital role in both metallurgical and non-metallurgical applications that are essential to this transition.
Lithium
Lithium is a cornerstone of the energy transition, serving as a key component in batteries that power electric vehicles and store renewable energy. Lime is indispensable in processing raw lithium sources, such as brines and mineral ores, into high-purity, battery-grade compounds like lithium hydroxide and lithium carbonate. These compounds are essential for manufacturing efficient and reliable lithium-ion batteries.
Lime is used throughout lithium processing to:
- Remove impurities
- Optimize pH conditions for chemical reactions
- React with lithium carbonate to produce lithium hydroxide
- Treat flue gases generated during high-temperature processing
Copper, Nickel, and Cobalt
Lime is equally critical in the extraction and refining of copper, nickel, and cobalt, metals that are foundational to the energy transition:
- Copper: Used in electrical wiring, motors, and renewable energy systems such as solar panels and wind turbines.
- Nickel: A key component in battery cathodes, especially for EVs, as well as in stainless steel and corrosion-resistant alloys.
- Cobalt: Essential for battery stability and energy density in lithium-ion batteries and also used in superalloys for aerospace and high-performance tools.
In metallurgical processing, lime is used to:
- Control pulp pH to optimize mineral flotation
- Neutralize acids used as lixiviants in leaching processes
- Remove soluble impurities from leaching circuits
- Stabilize tailings and manage waste streams
- Mitigate acid mine drainage and support environmental protection
- Improve slag fluidity during smelting
Partnering for performance: tailored lime solutions and expertise
At Lhoist, we provide high-quality lime, dolime, and mineral solutions, backed by deep technical expertise and a commitment to long-term partnerships. We collaborate closely with customers across the non-ferrous metallurgy sector to deliver customized support that goes beyond product supply.
We help our partners:
- Select the optimal lime or dolime product for each stage of their process
- Maximize reagent performance and process efficiency
- Enhance metal recovery and product consistency
- Reduce environmental impact through natural, effective solutions that support regulatory compliance and sustainability goals
Whether you are optimizing lithium extraction or improving copper smelting, Lhoist offers the industry knowledge and collaborative approach to help you succeed.