Multi-stakeholder optimization of a lithium supply chain approach for Brazil's Energy transition: Sustainable advantages of LiOH production over Li2CO3

This paper presents a comparison among several scenarios to assess the implementation of a multi-stakeholder approach within the lithium supply chain. The proposed framework integrates both economic and environmental concerns across the entire value chain, including virgin spodumene extraction, concentration, chemical conversion to Li2CO3 and LiOH, and distribution stages. A detailed appraisal of water requirements is conducted for each process, such as spodumene concentration and lithium compounds production, joined by the absolute material impact indicator (DMA) from a circular economy perspective. Furthermore, an innovative metric is proposed to account for greenhouse gas emissions, particularly CO2, enabling a broader, comprehensive environmental evaluation of the supply chain. To ensure precision and robustness in the results, a Mixed-Integer Non Linear Programming model is proposed, incorporating multiple levels of stakeholder interests. Then, the approach is applied to the case study of Brazil. Therefore, an accurate strategy for the national development of its lithium industry, as well as key challenges that must be addressed, is argued. Results showed that spodumene concentration is the most water-intensive stage, accounting for 83% of total consumption. In addition, from both economic and environmental perspectives, LiOH production in Brazil is more sustainable, supporting a strategic and progressive change from Li2CO3. Accordingly, this study contributes to enhancing widespread electromobility in Brazil by aligning the lithium supply chain with global sustainability goals and resource efficiency principles.