Livium has announced the next steps for the commercialisation of the LieNA technology, which has the potential to boost lithium extraction yields by up to 50 per cent by eliminating high-temperature conversion of spodumene.
The development and operation of a pilot plant, successful refinement of lithium phosphate and a demonstration plant engineering study are among the activities completed to date.
“Satisfactory completion of Stage 1 activities represents a significant milestone for LieNA,” Livium chief executive director and managing director Simon Linge said.
“Whilst lithium market conditions have tightened since our partnership with MinRes commenced, the progress made in Stage 1 activities has given Livium and MinRes the confidence to undertake further work to optimise the commercialisation pathway.”
Livium and joint venture partner Mineral Resources (MinRes) will now consider the preferred lithium product for development through LieNA, including the potential to produce a battery-grade lithium carbonate.
The two companies will also assess alternate commercialisation pathways for the LieNA technology.
To allow Stage 1A activities to be completed, MinRes and Livium have extended the maturity date of the convertible note deed from January 31 2025 to September 30 2025.
“Funding via the remaining balance of MinRes’ convertible note and LieNA R&D (research and development) tax incentive rebates allow the Stage 1A activities to advance without any dilutionary impacts for shareholders,” Linge said.
MinRes said they were pleased with the progress Livium has made on the LieNA technology.
“We are excited to continue our partnership with Livium throughout Stage 1A activities under the adjusted JDA (joint development agreement) to help us understand the technology’s potential breadth and optimise the development and commercial pathway,” MinRes said.
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