Development of New Ionic Exchange Methods: Chemistry Practicum with Sterling Chemicals Ltd

Abstract

Development of new and more efficient methods of Ionic Transfer using DLE (Direct Lithium Extraction), aiming to increase the recovery percentage of lithium from oilfield and geothermal brines. Sterling Chemicals Ltd is a chemical company with a strong focus on production of specialty chemicals for the energy and power industries. Sterling has a Laboratory in Edmonton at the Nanotechnology Research Center at the University of Alberta. As part of the Chemistry Internship Practicum (CHEM 497), from January 2023 to April 2023, I interned at Sterling Chemicals Ltd.

In this presentation I will highlight my experimental work comprising synthesis of an absorbent to perform the DLE, as well as the treatment of samples to determine the effectiveness of the process. The treatment of the samples involves wet chemistry and is corroborated by titration and pH measurement. The creation of the absorbent has basis on ionic exchange, as well as filtration for its extraction and analysis by spectroscopy and FWA (Full Water Analysis).

In the presentation, I will highlight skill I developed in my work environment, including task delegation, effective communication, and lab movement, application of theory, and practical laboratory skills needed to complete technical tasks, such as correct measuring techniques, organization and cleanliness standards, efficient reporting of results, and many others.

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Samuel Mugo