Standard Lithium Activates Cutting-Edge Plant, Paves Way For Cleaner Mining

Standard Lithium SLI has commissioned the largest continuously operating direct lithium extraction (DLE) unit in North America, taking a significant step towards establishing the company as a major sustainable lithium producer.

The unit is part of the company’s demonstration plant near El Dorado, Arkansas, extracting lithium from the Smackover Formation brine at an input flow rate of 90 gallons per minute.

“The column currently operating at Standard Lithium's demonstration plant is identical to those that will be used in the commercial application, both in terms of the size, design, and construction of the column, as well as the sorbent media being used inside,” stated President & COO, Dr. Andy Robinson, referring to the Li-Pro lithium selective sorption (LSS) unit supplied by Koch Technology Solutions.

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The technology behind direct lithium extraction offers several advantages over traditional lithium mining methods. The DLE process can achieve a lithium recovery rate of over 97%, as evidenced during two weeks in April 2024 at Standard Lithium’s demonstration plant. The test achieved this high recovery rate while rejecting over 99% of key contaminants such as sodium, calcium, magnesium and potassium.

These results suggest that DLE can be more efficient and environmentally friendly, as it reduces the need for large evaporation ponds and minimizes the environmental footprint.

Unlike traditional methods, which often involve large-scale mining operations and extensive use of evaporation ponds, DLE utilizes advanced technologies like filters, membranes, or ceramic beads to extract lithium from brine. After extraction, the spent brine is reinjected into the ground, reducing the environmental impact and conserving water resources.

Standard Lithium is one of many companies that recognize the potential of DLE technology. Exxon Mobil is also pursuing DLE in Arkansas, while fellow oil giants Saudi Aramco and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) also test these solutions. This strategic move aligns with their efforts to diversify their portfolios and cater to the growing electric vehicle market.

The growth of direct lithium extraction could positively influence the lithium industry in regions with limited water resources, such as the Lithium Triangle in South America. By reducing the dependency on evaporation ponds and implementing more sustainable extraction methods, DLE can offer a path to lithium production with a reduced environmental footprint, benefiting arid and water-scarce regions.

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Image generated using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.