At EnergyX, our mission is to revolutionize lithium extraction, making it more efficient, sustainable, and accessible. The recent discovery that Chile’s lithium resources are 28% higher than previously estimated underscores the urgency and opportunity to implement advanced extraction technologies.
According to a Reuters report, studies by Chile’s state mining company ENAMI revealed that the La Isla salt flat contains 2.13 million metric tons of lithium—a 150% increase from prior estimates—while the Aguilar salt flat holds nearly 1 million metric tons, up 40%. Together, these findings add 3.05 million tons to Chile’s known lithium resources, previously estimated at 11 million tons by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
This significant increase positions Chile to play an even more pivotal role in the global lithium market, especially as the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy storage solutions continues to surge.
The Challenge with Traditional Lithium Extraction
Traditional lithium extraction methods, such as evaporation ponds, are time-consuming, environmentally taxing, and often yield low recovery rates. As Chile looks to capitalize on its newfound resources, there’s a pressing need for more efficient and sustainable extraction technologies.
EnergyX’s Solution: LiTAS® Technology
EnergyX has developed a suite of Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technologies under its LiTAS® platform. This innovative approach combines proprietary membranes, solvents, and adsorbents to enhance lithium recovery from brine sources. Key advantages of the LiTAS® system include:
- High Recovery Rates: Achieving approximately 90% lithium recovery.
- Rapid Processing: Reducing extraction time from months to just 1-2 days.
- Minimal Environmental Impact: Requiring significantly less fresh water and energy compared to traditional methods.
- Cost Efficiency: Lowering both capital and operational expenditures.
Project Black Giant™: Our Commitment to Chile
In 2023, EnergyX took a significant step by acquiring approximately 100,000 acres of lithium-rich concessions in Chile’s Antofagasta region, launching Project Black Giant™. This project aims to develop one of the world’s first commercial DLE facilities, with plans to produce 40,000 metric tons of lithium per year. Surface samples from the site indicate lithium concentrations exceeding 400 mg/L, highlighting the area’s potential.
Project Black Giant™ aligns with Chile’s vision for sustainable and inclusive mining practices. By integrating advanced DLE technologies, we aim to ensure that lithium extraction processes are both efficient and respectful of local ecosystems and communities.
Conclusion
The discovery of increased lithium reserves in Chile presents a unique opportunity to redefine extraction practices. By embracing cutting-edge technologies like EnergyX’s LiTAS® and initiatives like Project Black Giant™, Chile can position itself as a leader in sustainable lithium production, meeting global demand while upholding environmental and social responsibilities.