What's Happening?
CleanTech Lithium, in partnership with Empower EIT, has successfully produced high-purity lithium carbonate from Laguna Verde brines in Chile. The production, amounting to 330 kg with purity levels between 99.68% and 99.91%, marks a significant achievement
in CleanTech's direct lithium extraction (DLE) pilot plant operations. The downstream processing was conducted by Empower in Dallas, USA. CleanTech is also conducting further testwork to optimize the process and ensure sustainable development, including a comprehensive analysis of spent brine reinjection options.
Why It's Important?
This development is crucial for the lithium industry, as it demonstrates the viability of producing high-purity lithium carbonate, a key component in battery manufacturing, from brine sources. The success of this project could enhance the supply of lithium for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, supporting the global transition to cleaner energy. It also underscores the potential for sustainable lithium extraction methods, which are increasingly important in addressing environmental concerns associated with traditional mining practices.
What's Next?
CleanTech is advancing its prefeasibility study and definitive feasibility study processes to further validate and optimize the lithium extraction and processing methods. The company is also collaborating with various partners to conduct additional testwork and analysis, aiming to refine the process and ensure compliance with international standards. The results of these studies will inform future development plans and potential commercial scaling of the project.
