Video EP6: The importance of the subsurface for lithium project success
Powering the electrification boom with minimal environmental impact
Demand for lithium
As the world shifts towards cleaner energy sources, the demand for critical minerals, including lithium, has been on the rise. Lithium-ion batteries are favored in consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and energy storage due to their high energy-to-mass ratio, efficiency, performance in high temperatures, and long-term energy retention.
Current supplies
Commercial lithium production primarily relies on two sources: hard rock ore and brine deposits, with hard rock mining constituting about 60% and brine extraction about 40%. Both methods pose environmental concerns: hard rock mining due to its energy-intensive and damaging processes, and brine extraction due to its slow evaporation process, extensive land use, water consumption, and solid waste generation.
We’re here to help. Talk to one of our lithium experts today.