#United States #AquaTech #Intrepid Potash #Adionics #Wendover

Advancements in Lithium Extraction

In a significant development for the lithium market, Intrepid Potash, Inc., along with Aquatech International, LLC, and Adionics, have made headway in their joint efforts to tap into lithium-rich brine resources in Wendover, Utah. This collaboration aims to bolster the supply of critical minerals necessary for modern battery production, aligning with U.S. efforts to enhance domestic mineral sourcing.

Successful Testing Results

The partnership has successfully completed demonstration tests that showcased the ability to convert brine into battery-grade lithium carbonate. The results revealed an impressive lithium extraction rate of 92.9%, achieving a lithium chloride purity exceeding 99.5%. This not only validates the potential of the brine resources at Intrepid’s facility but also strengthens the business case for establishing a dedicated lithium processing plant in the region.

Kevin Crutchfield, the CEO of Intrepid, expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with Aquatech and Adionics. He noted the timing couldn't be better for innovations in direct lithium extraction (DLE) technologies, especially as national priorities shift toward critical mineral production. The existing infrastructure at the Wendover facility is seen as a crucial asset, distinguishing this project from others in the sector, and there is optimism that it will be among the first domestic lithium projects to reach the market.

A Promising Future

Devesh Sharma, CEO of Aquatech, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the prime advantage of sourcing brine from established potash production sites. This, combined with the high natural lithium concentration in the brine, positions their operational model to deliver lithium efficiently and competitively on a global scale.

François-Xavier Rame, CEO of Adionics, emphasized the efficacy of their proprietary liquid-liquid extraction technology, indicating its potential to recover lithium effectively from complex brine mixes. This technology aims to meet the growing demand while maintaining sustainability in the extraction process.

Joint Development Agreement and Future Plans

The ongoing partnership operates under a Joint Development Agreement (JDA), which outlines a strategic framework for advancing this lithium project. The initial goals include detailed engineering and feasibility studies for a facility with a capacity of 5,000 metric tonnes of lithium extraction. With a focus on finalizing investment decisions in 2026, the collaborative effort seeks to design and construct a facility that integrates Intrepid's infrastructure, Aquatech's operational expertise, and Adionics' DLE technology.

As the project progresses, an increasing number of stakeholders are looking toward the outcomes of this partnership. Should they succeed, the facility is expected to play a pivotal role in local mineral production, contributing significantly to the United States' goals of reducing reliance on foreign mineral sources.

About the Companies

• - Aquatech, recognized for its process technology solutions, aims to operationalize sustainable practices through innovative mineral extraction processes, with a commitment to environmental considerations.
• - Adionics specializes in advanced lithium extraction techniques that focus on efficiency and minimal environmental impact, positioning the company at the forefront of sustainable mineral recovery.
• - Intrepid Potash is a leader in the production of potassium and other essential minerals, contributing to various industries including agriculture and oil and gas. Their innovative solar evaporation practices underline their commitment to environmentally-sound operations.

In conclusion, the collaboration between Intrepid, Aquatech, and Adionics signals a promising future for lithium extraction in the U.S., reinforcing domestic supply chains for critical mineral resources necessary for the evolving energy landscape.