Article

A new direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology is being developed in Alberta, Canada, by LithiumBank, which aims to mine lithium from underground brines more efficiently and with less environmental impact. This approach repurposes existing oil and gas wells and could reduce reliance on traditional hard rock and brine extraction methods, although it currently requires significant energy input. With global lithium demand projected to reach 1.3 million tonnes by 2040, this innovation could play a crucial role in meeting the needs of electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy storage.