ADI evaluated direct lithium extraction routes across adsorption, ion‑exchange, and solvent‑based systems using performance and cost considerations. Pilot‑scale maturity, brine characteristics, and downstream integration constraints were assessed against U.S. policy incentives. Trade‑offs between recovery efficiency and scalability were explicitly tested.
The client
Energy technology developer
The situation
Commercial readiness of DLE pathways unclear
ADI’s contributions
Route benchmarking
DLE routes were compared on recovery and complexity.
Scalability constraints
Brine quality and integration limits were assessed.
Policy‑linked economics
Incentives were incorporated into economics.
Commercial readiness framing
Near‑term and longer‑dated options were distinguished.
Key outcomes
- Informed technology selection priorities
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