CleanTech Lithium PLC (AIM:CTL, OTCQX:CTLHF) has successfully produced pilot-scale lithium carbonate through its downstream conversion process.
This marks a significant milestone, positioning the company as a leader in the use of direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology at the pilot scale.
The process began with the shipment of four tanks containing 88 cubic metres of concentrated brine eluate from CleanTech Lithium’s DLE pilot plant in Copiapó, Chile, to Conductive Energy’s facility in Chicago.
The first tank, containing 20 cubic metres of eluate, has produced 50kg of lithium carbonate, with total production from this tank expected to reach 150kg.
Laboratory analysis will verify the grade and impurity profile, aiming for a battery-grade standard exceeding 99.5%.
The production process utilises forward osmosis for concentration, reducing water and energy consumption compared to conventional methods. After purification, the solution is converted into lithium carbonate.
A site visit to the Chicago facility was held on November 19 to showcase the process, attended by CleanTech Lithium director Gordon Stein and Conductive Energy CEO Haafiz Hasham.
Conversations with potential strategic partners interested in testing the product have begun.
CleanTech Lithium plans to send initial samples ranging from several kilograms to tens of kilograms for qualification purposes following laboratory validation.
The milestone underscores CleanTech Lithium’s commitment to sustainable lithium production, which prevents aquifer depletion through reinjection of spent brine and reduces environmental impact with innovative processing methods.
Chairman Steve Kesler said: "CleanTech Lithium has reached an important milestone by commencing pilot scale lithium carbonate production using a sustainable and innovative DLE-based process.
"As a leader in the DLE sector in Chile with a focus on efficiency and sustainability, this accomplishment marks a significant step forward.
"Years of hard work have led to this important milestone, and it sets the stage for future development with a commitment to supporting the transition to electric vehicles and clean energy."