Standard Lithium Launches Pilot DLE Plant in Arkansas

Standard Lithium

Standard Lithium, a U.S.-based lithium developer, has officially commenced operations at its pilot direct lithium extraction (DLE) plant in southern Arkansas, targeting lithium recovery from brine within the Smackover Formation. This marks a significant step toward scaling domestic lithium production for the battery supply chain.

The pilot plant, which will operate until late January 2025, aims to produce 1,000 US gallons (USG) of 6% lithium chloride solution. The extracted lithium will be supplied to three lithium carbonate equipment vendors, who will process approximately 30kg of battery-grade lithium carbonate for initial qualification testing with potential offtake partners.

Joint Venture with Equinor to Boost Lithium Development

This pilot facility is part of Standard Lithium's South West Arkansas (SWA) project, which operates as a joint venture with Equinor, the Norwegian state-controlled energy company. The collaboration seeks to expand lithium extraction capabilities using DLE technology, which is regarded as a more sustainable alternative to conventional lithium mining methods.

The move aligns with growing U.S. efforts to secure a domestic lithium supply, reducing reliance on foreign sources and supporting the expansion of the electric vehicle (EV) and energy storage markets.