Lithium in
geothermal waters
Lithium can be found dissolved in the geothermal waters beneath Cornwall. These mineral-rich waters offer a unique opportunity for sustainable lithium extraction.We plan to responsibly develop a number of geothermal projects across Cornwall, each capable of producing between 500 and 1,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent per year.
The extraction process
Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) is a process used to extract lithium from geothermal water pumped from deep below the surface. DLE is considered significantly less water intensive than traditional lithium extraction methods because it does not rely on large evaporation ponds. The process not only produces lithium but could potentially tap into significant amounts of low-carbon heat energy, which could be used to benefit local industries and communities.
Revolutionary production process
The process used in our geothermal lithium extraction plants can be likened to a water purification system. Mineral-rich water is pumped from approximately 2,000 metres below the surface via a borehole and passed through columns where the lithium is extracted from the water. With the lithium removed, the water is returned to the ground via a second borehole.
Low impact and
sustainable operations
Cornish Lithium’s geothermal lithium extraction sites are designed to be much smaller and less intrusive than traditional mining sites. The boreholes used to reach lithium-rich groundwater are about 20-50 centimetres wide, and the facilities housing the high-tech processing equipment are roughly the size of a rugby pitch. With little to no wastage and a small footprint, the process we use is sustainable and has a low carbon footprint.
Geothermal Projects
Cross Lanes
Exploration at Cross Lanes near Redruth during the past two years has identified the potential for lithium extraction from the waters that naturally circulate deep underground.
