AUS
NZ
UK
CA
USA
IND
Highlights
CleanTech Lithium PLC (CTL) partners with DuPont Water Solutions to trial nanofiltration membranes
FilmTec LiNE-XD membrane evaluated for impurity removal and improved lithium recovery in pilot operations
Pilot plant testing with Conductive Energy to validate membrane performance under production conditions
The lithium processing sector provides critical battery materials for electric vehicles and energy storage systems. Companies in this field pursue innovations to increase recovery efficiency and reduce environmental impact. CleanTech Lithium PLC (LSE:CTL) has entered a collaboration focusing on advanced membrane applications to refine lithium extraction workflows.
Partnership with DuPont Water Solutions
CleanTech Lithium’s agreement with DuPont Water Solutions introduces FilmTec LiNE-XD nanofiltration membranes into its processing circuit. These membranes are engineered to target dissolved impurities while allowing lithium ions to pass through. The collaboration leverages DuPont’s expertise in membrane science and CleanTech Lithium’s operational pilot plant to assess real-world performance.
Nanofiltration Pilot Evaluations
The evaluation phase will integrate membrane modules downstream of initial brine concentration steps. Tests will measure flux rates, rejection profiles for key contaminants and overall lithium retention. Data will determine whether membrane treatment can replace or reduce reliance on traditional thermal evaporation and crystallization stages. Early laboratory trials indicated high salt and organic matter separation efficiencies.
Efficiency and Sustainability Gains
Deploying nanofiltration aims to deliver several operational benefits. By minimizing water evaporation and solid waste generation, energy consumption may decline. Faster cycle times and lower footprint requirements can enhance throughput. Moreover, reduced thermal processing supports lower greenhouse gas emissions. Such improvements align with industry objectives for sustainable raw material production.
Pilot Operations and Next Steps
In partnership with Conductive Energy, CleanTech Lithium will commission membrane skids within its pilot facility. Continuous monitoring of process parameters—such as pressure differentials, permeate conductivity and membrane fouling rates—will inform design optimization. Subsequent phases will explore membrane lifespan under fluctuating feed compositions. Positive outcomes may lead to scale-up studies on commercial-scale modules.
Strategic Technology Alliances
This collaboration exemplifies the value of technical partnerships in the mineral extraction industry. By combining specialized membrane technology with field-tested operational expertise, CleanTech Lithium seeks to advance its position in the battery-grade lithium market. Engagements with technology providers accelerate development timelines and offer pathways to integrate cutting-edge solutions across emerging lithium projects.
