Compass Minerals, a provider of minerals, has completed a third-party conversion testing of lithium brine resources into lithium carbonate and battery-grade lithium hydroxide.
The company described the testing as a significant milestone in developing lithium solutions. It claimed it is the first known conversion to battery-grade lithium from the Great Salt Lake's sustainable lithium brine resource.
As part of the tests, the company contracted Veolia Energy to conduct a lithium chloride to lithium hydroxide conversion using a proven, commercially viable conversion process.
The lithium project results from the growing demand for electric vehicles (EV) in the US and abroad. The company said the results are "critical for producing advanced battery materials".
Furthermore, it expects to enter the market with a battery-grade product in 2025.
Kevin S. Crutchfield, president and chief executive officer, Compass Minerals, said the company is evaluating multiple paths for development, including potential partnerships and product selection.
"As we continue to assess potential DLE technology partners and commercial opportunities, we remain committed to responsible stewardship of this exciting and sustainable resource," Crutchfield said.
