The Impact of Anthropogenic Inputs on Lithium Content in River and Tap Water

Overview

Journal Nat Commun

Specialty Biology

Date 2019 Dec 5

PMID 31796732

Citations 9

Authors

Hye-Bin Choi

Jong-Sik Ryu

Woo-Jin Shin

Nathalie Vigier

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

The use of lithium (Li) has dramatically increased during the last two decades due to the proliferation of mobile electronic devices and the diversification of electric-powered vehicles. Lithium is also prescribed as a medication against bipolar disorder. While Li can exert a toxic effect on living organisms, few studies have investigated the impact of anthropogenic inputs on Li levels in the environment. Here we report Li concentrations and Li isotope compositions of river, waste and tap water, and industrial products from the metropolitan city of Seoul. Results show that the large increase in population density in Seoul is accompanied by a large enrichment in aqueous Li. Lithium isotopes evidence a major release from Li-rich materials. Water treatment protocols are also shown to be inefficient for Li. Our study therefore highlights the need for a global Li survey and adequate solutions for minimizing their impact on ecosystems and city dwellers.

Citing Articles

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Estimating Lithium Concentrations in Groundwater Used as Drinking Water for the Conterminous United States.

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