Chilean mining giant SQM is poised to revolutionize lithium production. With the world’s second-largest lithium reserves, Chile plays a pivotal role in the electric vehicle (EV) battery industry. SQM’s ambitious plan involves selecting direct lithium extraction (DLE) technologies to rapidly expand production in the Salar de Atacama. Let’s delve into the details.
The DLE Quest:
SQM’s joint venture agreement with state-controlled Codelco, announced last month, underscores the urgency. President Gabriel Boric’s commitment to reducing water-wasting evaporation ponds aligns with the DLE approach. However, DLE technology has yet to prove itself at commercial scale without pond usage.
The DLE Landscape:
SQM meticulously evaluated over 70 DLE technologies, narrowing it down to 12 for pilot testing. Two of these tests are currently underway. The Atacama’s vast expanse and chemical complexity demand multiple solutions. Carlos Diaz, head of SQM’s lithium division, emphasizes the need for adaptability across diverse brine compositions.
The Road Ahead:
SQM aims to boost annual lithium output to 280,000–300,000 metric tons by 2060 (up from 200,000 tons this year). Balancing environmental concerns, electricity usage, and freshwater consumption remains critical. After selection, SQM faces a lengthy permitting process with Chilean regulators.
