The Power of Lithium in South America

ZICARI, JULIAN NORBERTO; BRUNO FORNILLO

Entreciencias: diálogos en la sociedad del conocimiento

Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México

Lugar: México, D.F.; Año: 2017 p. 1 - 18

2007-8064

A central cause of global environmental change is the emission of CO2 emitted by the energy matrix, predominantly based on fossil fuels. As a result, we must face an "energy transition" supported by renewable and sustainable sources. Lithium batteries would contribute to this completely renewable energy system, as they could serve to traction transport, act as a sustainable energy reserve (which is mostly electric), and enable the mobility of multiple devices. In South America we find 80 percent of the most profitable lithium reserves in the world, in the "Lithium Triangle" formed by the Andean salt flats in Argentina, Bolivia and Chile, which generates the enthusiasm to participate in the emerging energy carrier. In this context, we will explore the world market of lithium and batteries, the overall situation of its exploitation, and the attempts to create a link between the Southern Cone countries with lithium reserves and their various attempts to manufacture lithium-ion batteries.