Progress and prospects of forward osmosis membranes for lithium extraction and recovery: a review

Suresh, Deepa and Goh, Pei Sean and Ahmad, Mohammad Norazmi and Ismail, Ahmad Fauzi and Guo, Tuo and Guo, Qingjie (2026) Progress and prospects of forward osmosis membranes for lithium extraction and recovery: a review. AQUA-Water Infrastructure Ecosystems and Society, 75 (5). pp. 202-224. ISSN 2709-8028 E-ISSN 2709-8036

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Abstract

The rapid expansion of the lithium economy, driven by increasing demand for batteries and renewable energy storage, has established lithium as a critical resource in modern technologies. This growing reliance highlights the urgent need for sustainable separation systems to meet future supply demands. This study presents the advantages of forward osmosis (FO) membranes for lithium extraction, examining key factors influencing their performance and recent advances in membrane design, material development, and operational strategies. The performance of FO membranes is critically evaluated, with emphasis on the mechanisms governing selective Li+ separation from competing ions in complex feed solutions. Various membrane modification approaches, including functional polymers, nanomaterials, and optimized draw solutions, are discussed in relation to their influence on water flux, ion selectivity, and overall separation efficiency. These strategies have demonstrated improvements in FO membrane performance for lithium recovery, although their effectiveness depends strongly on membrane structure, material properties, and operating conditions. Compared with nanofiltration, FO membranes can achieve comparable Li+/Mg2+; selectivity under significantly lower hydraulic pressures, offering notable energy-saving potential. This work also outlines current challenges and proposes future research directions toward achieving efficient, scalable, and environmentally sustainable FO-based lithium recovery systems.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Draw solution; feed solution; FO membrane; lithium recovery; membrane modification; membrane performance
Subjects:	Q Science > QD Chemistry
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Science Kulliyyah of Science > Department of Chemistry
Depositing User:	Dr Mohammad Norazmi Ahmad
Date Deposited:	11 Aug 2026 11:17
Last Update:	11 Aug 2026 11:17
Queue Number:	2026-08-Q4692
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/130737

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