Distribution characteristics and ecological, environmental and biological health effects of lithium in different geological environments

[Objective] The new pattern of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature is influencing the research concept of geological ecological organic systems. Understanding and mastering the distribution characteristics of lithium in different geological environments can help improve the utilization efficiency of lithium resources and promote green transformation of development methods. [Methods] Focusing on the needs of geological work, this study analyzed the distribution characteristics, ecological, environmental, and biological health effects of lithium in different geological environments through extensive surveys, field sampling, physical and chemical property testing analysis using interdisciplinary research methods.[Results] The regional and multi-field coupling distribution characteristics of lithium in various spheres (hydrosphere:ocean floor, groundwater, rivers, lakes, glacier meltwater, snow water and rain; lithosphere:continental crusts, rocks and soil; atmosphere and biosphere) were clarified. The spatial-temporal distribution characteristics and regional differences of lithium were analyzed. The influencing factors for complex biological, geological, geochemical processes as well as spatial-temporal patterns for each layer's large amount but complicated elements were preliminarily summarized. The distribution features for key layers with respect to land biosphere was enriched while a comprehensive evaluation index system was improved for large-scale lithium resource bases. A systematic quantitative evaluation model was established to assess changes in lithium concentration on surface water, groundwater, and soil caused under human activities (mining), revealing unique ecological and environmental effects associated with "key layers" along with both lack or excess health effects from lithium. [Conclusions] Research on the distribution characteristics and ecological and environmental effects of lithium in different geological environments shows that pegmatite-type lithium resource development has overall safety control over its impact on ecology and environment while there are still some critical issues that need to be resolved regarding clean efficient development and utilization for clay-type and brine-type Lithium resources. With further deepening research into theoretical problems related to lithogenic mechanisms coupled with interdisciplinary basic research applications and simulation technology will make breakthrough progress possible towards understanding migration and transformation mechanisms associated with Lithium elements. While physiological amounts are beneficial to health excessive levels within organisms can cause certain side-effects even toxic reactions so it is necessary to continue conducting systematic studies on eco-environmental and biological health effects across different types and sources of Lithium resources providing theoretical basis support towards safe rational development strategies concerning strategic emerging minerals along with promoting eco-civilization construction efforts within China.