This significant deal by one of the world’s largest mining companies in its acquisition of a significant lithium asset is very good news for those technology companies focusing on Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE). Companies such as Watercycle Technologies, an investment company of Aer Ventures, stand to materially benefit from the validation of such a significant sign of support for DLE technologies.
We believe that the DLE has the potential to massively disrupt existing inefficient and costly mining methods for lithium and other Critical Minerals. Most consumers have no idea of the environmental damage caused by the current methods of battery production processes and the mining of the materials from the natural landscape. DLE has the potential to reduce the monetary costs of producing lithium, materially reduce the Greenhouse Gas emissions compared with current mining methods and, critically, be far less damaging to sub-surface aquifers where brines are sourced.
The compelling economics and environmental benefits have been clearly appreciated by Rio Tinto reflected in this deal and we look forward with interest to understand how Arcadium’s resources are developed in the future by Rio Tinto.
More information:
https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2024/rio-tinto-to-acquire-arcadium-lithium
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Aer Ventures | Chris Rowley | Paul Dudley
Watercycle Technologies