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Austin-based EnergyX has deployed its first lithium pilot plant in Bolivia, which will be the first of three plants operating in Bolivia's Uyuni salt marshes.
Yantan is the largest lithium resource in the world. EnergyX says it has built and shipped the world's first device to extract lithium directly to the region.
The lithium ion transport and separation (LiTAS) pilot plant developed by scientists at the University of Texas uses membranes with adjustable pore sizes to separate and transport ions that allow only lithium to pass through. The membrane is placed in the module shell, the salt water is pumped in, and several layers of membranes are separated.
EnergyX says its process has a much smaller carbon footprint and requires little use of fresh water. It also uses zero harmful chemicals.
Tests at the University of Texas facility show that the recovery rate of lithium has improved.
After a successful pilot phase, EnergyX plans to work with the Bolivian government to commercialize its process.
EnergyX is one of nine companies approved by the Bolivian government to develop lithium technology for use in the country.


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