Aquatech Sets a New Standard with North America's Largest Direct Lithium Extraction Unit

Aquatech Sets a New Standard in Lithium Extraction

Aquatech, renowned for its cutting-edge technology in critical minerals processing and water reuse, is poised to reshape the lithium production landscape in North America. This June, the company announced its plan to deliver the largest Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) unit ever deployed on the continent, specifically for the Prairie Lithium project located in Saskatchewan, Canada.

The DLE unit will utilize Aquatech's proprietary Li-Pro™ Lithium Selective Sorption (LSS) technology. This innovative approach, part of the PEARL™ technology licensing platform, enables the production of an exceptionally pure lithium chloride stream, essential for the growing battery industry. The modularized Quadpod™ unit, comprising four full-scale Li-Pro columns, is expected to arrive at Prairie Lithium's facility in the summer of 2026, marking a significant milestone in large-scale modular lithium processing.

Aquatech's Li-Pro LSS technology stands out as the most rigorously tested DLE solution globally, boasting over 15,000 successful extraction cycles across four years. It has proven its efficiency by processing over 1 million barrels of brine sourced from the Arkansas Smackover formation, exemplifying its reliability and effectiveness in lithium recovery.

Manish Backliwal, Senior Director at Aquatech, expressed optimism about this project, stating, "This collaboration is designed to accelerate Prairie Lithium's path to commercial production." His words emphasize the integrated approach Aquatech is taking, combining technical expertise with the operational capabilities required to execute the project efficiently.

The collaboration is not just about technology transfer; it signifies a leap towards achieving commercial viability for the Prairie Lithium project. Zach Maurer, Executive Director at Prairie Lithium, stated, "The installation of a commercial-scale Li-Pro unit at our facility in Saskatchewan represents an important step toward demonstrating the project's commercial viability." Maurer's comments underline the significance of this venture not only for Prairie Lithium but for the entire lithium industry as it seeks to establish one of the largest DLE facilities globally.

The Prairie Lithium project is situated in one of the world's most mining-friendly jurisdictions, benefitting from easy access to essential infrastructure including electricity, natural gas, fresh water, paved roads, and rail systems. Moreover, the project aims to uphold strong environmental standards by minimizing the consumption of freshwater, land usage, and waste, aligning with contemporary sustainable practices in lithium development.

With over 100,000 tons of lithium projects currently in execution around the globe, Aquatech continues to assert its leadership in technology and performance. Through its PEARL™ technology platform, the company combines DLE processes with refining, purification, process design, and digital optimization, presenting a comprehensive solution for lithium processing. As it positions itself as a single accountable partner, Aquatech is dedicated to helping resource owners confidently deliver battery-grade lithium, all while reducing costs and risks associated with installation, processing, and market timing.

Looking ahead, the collaboration between Aquatech and Prairie Lithium sets a new standard in lithium extraction technology, and it is anticipated that their efforts will have significant implications for the future of the lithium market, which is crucial for the ongoing electrification of the global economy.

For more insights on Aquatech and their impactful projects, visit www.aquatech.com. For information about Prairie Lithium, explore www.prairielithium.com.