The fourth industrial revolution will further see the demand for mobile devices with internal power storage grow exponentially, with additional positive implications for lithium battery reliance. However, the chemical and physical properties of this unique commodity mean that it is also suitable for use in creating glass and glass ceramics, automotive parts, greases, metallurgy, polymer and air treatment.
Home to multiple lithium-rich pegmatite belts, lithium mining and production therefore represents a rich economic opportunity for driving job creation and sustainable development in remote regions of Zimbabwe.