Pursuit Minerals has officially initiated the first phase of operations at its Lithium Carbonate Pilot Plant. This significant development marks a key milestone in the company’s endeavor to produce battery-grade lithium carbonate.
The pilot plant, now fully commissioned, is set to embark on producing lithium carbonate through a conventional evaporation process, aiming for an annual output of 250 tonnes at a purity of 99.95% suitable for battery applications. The design and operational planning of the plant have undergone thorough dynamic simulation and mass balance assessments to ensure optimal production efficiency.
To bolster the integrity and effectiveness of the plant design, Pursuit engaged Ausenco, a renowned engineering firm, to conduct an independent peer review. This study encompasses the plant design, block flow process, and evaporation pond configuration, ensuring that all aspects meet the highest standards of operational excellence.
The company has also assembled a team of seasoned engineers tasked with overseeing the plant’s operations, including the production of the initial lithium carbonate batches. The initial phase involves producing a sample batch using synthetic brine, projected at 50-100kg, to validate the plant’s production capabilities.
Subsequently, brine obtained from Pursuit’s Stage 1 Drilling Program will be used to generate an estimated 2 to 10 tonnes of lithium carbonate. This step is crucial for demonstrating the plant’s full-scale operational capacity and the quality of the lithium carbonate produced.
Located in Salta, Argentina, the pilot plant embodies Pursuit Minerals’ commitment to advancing its lithium carbonate project towards commercial viability. The company’s efforts in lithium carbonate production align with the growing demand for battery-grade materials, critical for the burgeoning electric vehicle and renewable energy sectors. 
