<p>Clay-type lithium ore holds substantial development value due to its high lithium (Li) and aluminum (Al) content. Whereas, existing extraction technologies focus solely on Li recovery neglecting the comprehensive utilization of associated aluminum. Herein, an innovative process involving mechanical activation coupled with acid leaching is proposed for the coextraction of lithium and aluminum from clay-type lithium ore. Based on a comprehensive comparison of the leaching behavior of valuable components using three inorganic acids, sulfuric acid was identified as the preferred leaching agent. Changes in the physicochemical characteristics of clay-type lithium ore during mechanical activation were studied. It was found that clay minerals such as kaolinite, cookeite, montmorillonite, and illite were transformed into amorphous phases, facilitating the dissolution of Li and Al. Systematic experiments demonstrated that under mechanical activation (850 r/min, 3 h) and subsequent acid leaching (1.2 times theoretical H₂SO₄ dosage, 90 °C, 5:1 mL/g liquid–solid ratio, 2 h), the extraction efficiencies of Li and Al reached 94.7% and 74.7%, respectively. Analysis indicated that unleached Al was primarily present as diaspore in activated product and leaching residue. This study provides theoretical and technical support for the synergistic extraction of Li and Al from clay-type lithium ore.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>