International Battery Metals Ltd. (IBAT) has partnered with US Magnesium LLC to install the world’s first patented modular Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) plant. This innovative facility, strategically located at US Mag’s operations near Salt Lake City, Utah, will process lithium from waste-magnesium salts, marking a significant advancement in lithium extraction technology.
The plant’s modular, mobile design allows for scalability and adaptation to various brine sources, including those from oilfield produced brines and subterranean resources. Initial setup and testing of the equipment are underway, with full commissioning expected within the next three months.
IBAT’s technology, independently verified by SLR International Corporation and Greg Mehos & Associates LLC, boasts an impressive ability to extract over 97% of available lithium from brine sources. This high efficiency not only meets the growing demand for lithium, essential for electric vehicle batteries and energy storage systems, but also does so with minimal environmental impact. The process is designed to return lithium-depleted brine to its original source, maintaining a closed recycling loop and preserving sensitive water resources.
The compact, high-yield design of the plant requires just three acres of land, significantly less than traditional lithium production facilities. This smaller footprint, combined with the ability to expand capacity as needed, positions IBAT as a key player in the U.S. lithium market, offering a sustainable alternative to foreign lithium sources. 
