Direct Lithium Extraction

End-to-End Sustainable Solutions Delivered by Experts in Resin Technology and Brine Treatment

Every brine is different and requires a unique treatment strategy to remove impurities. For direct lithium extraction (DLE) technologies, how efficiently and effectively impurities are rejected impacts cost across the lithium flowsheet. The path to scalable DLE is filled with uncertainties, but Ecolab can guide the way.

Ecolab experts offer in-depth experience testing and treating brines around the world, advanced lithium resin production capabilities and unmatched expertise with end-to-end process challenges. Our services span the DLE project lifecycle including process modeling, product and equipment selection, resin and water treatment solutions, and digital optimization with unique monitoring and modeling capabilities.

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Helping You Achieve More Sustainable and Efficient Lithium Production

The search for more sustainable and efficient lithium production has spurred the development of direct lithium extraction (DLE), a cutting-edge technological breakthrough that paves the way for a more environmentally conscious approach to lithium mining.

With the right approach, DLE offers several notable improvements from previous extraction methods.

  • Water Preservation
    Unlike evaporation processes, DLE significantly reduces water consumption by extracting lithium without the need for large evaporation ponds. The process can also return the brine to its source, minimizing ecological disruption.
  • Land Footprint
    DLE technologies can be implemented with a much smaller physical footprint compared to traditional methods, which helps to preserve natural landscapes and reduce overall environmental impact.
  • Speed and Efficiency
    DLE enables a faster production cycle, so lithium can be extracted within hours as opposed to the months (or years) required by evaporation ponds. This quicker response time helps meet evolving market demands.

 

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Maximize Lithium

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Minimize Water

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Optimize Performance

The World Needs Lithium

The global demand for lithium is expected to quadruple over the next 10 years. To meet this demand, we are helping advance current and new technologies. Learn more about current innovations and how Ecolab is helping usher in a new era of lithium production.

Ecolab Brine Conditioning Program

Brine Conditioning Chemistry

  • A tailored treatment plan for your brine. Our expert-designed program delivers the quality and quantity of brine you need for direct lithium extraction.
  • Coagulants and Flocculants
  • Antifoam
  • pH Adjustment
  • Filtration
  • Ion Exchange Resins

In-Process Water Treatment

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  • RO Generation and Process Cooling Technology
  • Membrane System Performance Monitoring
  • Cooling Water Management
  • Biofouling Control
  • Automated Dosing Systems

Post-DLE Solutions

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  • Ion Exchange Resins
  • Reinjection Well Scale, Corrosion and Biofouling Control

Ecolab Purolite™ Resins

Purolite™ Resins play a critical role in the DLE process. We offer a portfolio of technologies to assist in the path from brine to final product:

  • Lithium extraction media manufacturing and co-development capabilities
  • Industry-leading ion exchange resin for brine decalcification and impurity removal for both pre- and post- direct lithium extraction
  • Vast experience in manufacturing both ion exchange and adsorbent resins
  • Extensive research and development project experience

Optimal resin choice depends on the specifics of your plant operation, and Ecolab can help guide you to the best resin selection.

Read More About Purolite Resins

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Give Us a Call

With unparalleled expertise and cutting-edge technology, we partner with customers to deliver world-class results and optimized operations. Contact us to learn how we can help you.

Nalco Water 
1601 W. Diehl Road
Naperville, Il 60563

Thank you for your interest in our direct lithium extraction products and services.

Nalco Water Customer Service: +1-800-288-0879

Contact the Ecolab Direct Lithium Extraction Team