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Lithium, Li2O & LCE Conversion Calculator

Convert between elemental lithium (Li), lithium oxide (Li₂O) and theoretical lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) — for grades or contained tonnes — using transparent, versioned stoichiometric factors.

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How to use this calculator

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Calculated results

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More needed
  • Enter a value to convert.
Assumptions & basis
  • Atomic-weight basis: 2024-CIAAW-conventional (default)
  • LCE: Theoretical equivalent — not saleable carbonate or plant yield (derived)

Before you rely on this: First-pass guide only. Verify safety-critical or regulated work against the relevant standards, your project requirements and a qualified professional.

How to use this calculator

  1. Choose the source species (Li, Li₂O or LCE) and whether you are converting a grade or a contained mass.
  2. Enter the value; optionally add an ore/product tonnage to get contained tonnes.
  3. Read the equivalent Li, Li₂O and theoretical LCE, plus the exact conversion factors used.

How it works

The factors come from conventional atomic weights (Li 6.94, O 15.999, C 12.011): Li₂O molar mass 29.879 and Li₂CO₃ (LCE) 73.888. So Li = Li₂O × 0.4645403, Li₂O = Li × 2.1526657, LCE = Li₂O × 2.4729074 and LCE = Li × 5.3233429. Factors are never rounded before multiplying — only the display is rounded.

LCE is a theoretical stoichiometric equivalent used to compare deposits and products on one basis. It does not imply chemical recovery, carbonate-plant yield, product purity or commercial payability.

Worked example

Converting 1 tonne of each species. 1 t of elemental Li = 2.1526657 t Li₂O = 5.3233429 t theoretical LCE. Going the other way, 1 t of Li₂O = 0.4645403 t Li = 2.4729074 t theoretical LCE.

Common mistakes

  • Reporting LCE as saleable lithium carbonate — it is a theoretical equivalent, not plant production.
  • Rounding the conversion factor before multiplying, which introduces error in large tonnages.
  • Mixing a grade and a tonnage in the same field — convert grade and contained mass separately.

Frequently asked questions

What is LCE?

Lithium Carbonate Equivalent — the theoretical mass of Li₂CO₃ that the contained lithium could form. It is an industry comparison unit, not a statement of recoverable or saleable carbonate.

Why can factors differ slightly between sources?

Standard atomic weights are published as intervals. This tool uses fixed conventional values (shown in the results) so every conversion is reproducible.

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Cite this tool

Zerdly. (2026). Lithium, Li2O & LCE Conversion Calculator. Retrieved from https://www.zerdly.com/tools/lithium-li2o-lce-converter/

Tip: Enter any known values to calculate the remaining results.

All calculations run in your browser. Your inputs are never saved or transmitted.