KBR Partners with Weardale Lithium for Cutting-Edge Demonstration Plant in the UK

KBR Partners with Weardale Lithium for Innovative Demonstration Plant in the UK

KBR, a global leader in technology and engineering solutions, has secured a contract with Weardale Lithium Limited to build one of the most advanced demonstration facilities in Europe for lithium extraction. This ambitious project is located in Eastgate, County Durham, United Kingdom, and it represents a significant step forward in sustainable lithium production.

The Project Overview

The contract outlines that KBR will provide critical technology licensing and proprietary engineering design for Weardale Lithium's new plant. This facility targets the ambitious goal of scaling up production to 10,000 tons of battery-grade lithium carbonate annually within the next few years. The lithium will be sourced from existing geothermal groundwater production wells, ensuring a sustainable extraction process.

This partnership builds on an integrated technology offering established last year, utilizing KBR's proprietary PureLi® technology in conjunction with Geolith SAS's Li-Capt® Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technology. These combined efforts have already demonstrated success by producing battery-grade lithium carbonate from Weardale’s brine at the pilot level, a positive indicator for the commercial phase.

Commitment to Sustainability

Jay Ibrahim, President of KBR Sustainable Technology Solutions, highlighted the cooperation with Weardale Lithium as a reflection of both parties' commitment to offering sustainable solutions to meet the increasing global demand for lithium. This demand is driven chiefly by the rapid growth of electric vehicles (EVs) and the need for renewable energy storage solutions.

The significance of this initiative is underscored by its contribution to resolving the ongoing challenges within the global lithium supply chain, a crucial element in advancing the transition towards sustainable energy.

Stewart Dickson, CEO of Weardale Lithium, expressed enthusiasm about initiating the engineering design for the demonstration plant. The first batches of battery-grade lithium carbonate are anticipated to be ready by early 2026. The project is expected to inject over £1 billion into the economy of North East England and has been recognized in the UK Government's Critical Minerals Strategy, emphasizing its importance in targeting a net-zero economy.

Advancements in Lithium Extraction Technology

The implementation of Geolith's DLE Li-Capt technology, together with KBR's PureLi technology at the demonstration facility, marks a pioneering approach to lithium extraction. Jean-Philippe Gibaud, President of Geolith SAS, noted the recognition of their technology's efficiency in lithium extraction, which significantly minimizes carbon output and water usage. Such sustainability in the extraction process aligns perfectly with global environmental goals.

KBR's longstanding expertise spans over seven decades in the critical minerals sector, particularly in evaporation and crystallization technologies, ensuring compliance with evolving environmental regulations.

About KBR

KBR is widely recognized for its global reach, employing approximately 37,000 people across more than 80 countries. The firm is dedicated to delivering technology, value-added services, and continuous operational support to its clients, consistently striving for predictable results and long-term partnerships.

For more details about KBR's offerings, visit www.kbr.com.

This collaboration with Weardale Lithium not only marks a milestone in advancing lithium extraction technology but also significantly contributes to the region's economy and underscores KBR's commitment to innovation and sustainability in the energy sector.