Australia’s Infinity Lithium, a prominent player in mineral exploration, has set its sights on a pioneering partnership with Germany’s thyssenkrupp AG to revolutionize lithium production using green hydrogen technology.
The partnership between Infinity Lithium and thyssenkrupp’s subsidiary marks a significant leap forward in the sustainable production of lithium. The joint effort will kickstart technology trials at thyssenkrupp’s facility in Germany, paving the way for a greener and more environmentally friendly approach to lithium extraction. The ambition doesn’t stop at Germany; Infinity Lithium is actively exploring the possibility of implementing this innovative technology in its lithium project located in Spain.
This strategic collaboration comes on the heels of Infinity Lithium’s earlier agreement with South Korea’s LG Energy Solution, solidifying its role as a key player in the lithium supply chain. With the electric revolution in full swing, the demand for lithium, especially in the form of battery-grade lithium hydroxide, is reaching unprecedented levels. This essential element powers the heart of EV batteries, making it a linchpin in the transition to sustainable transportation.
The urgency to scale up lithium production is underscored by market insights from Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, which anticipates global lithium demand to surpass a staggering 400,000 tons of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) in 2021. Manufacturers worldwide are engaged in a fierce competition to boost their lithium production capacities to meet this burgeoning demand.
For example, in late 2020, Chilean chemical giant Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile (SQM) unveiled plans to secure USD 1.1 billion in funding. This capital injection aims to bolster its lithium carbonate production capacity significantly. SQM also committed to investing USD 1.9 billion over the next four years, with the goal of more than doubling Chile’s annual lithium carbonate production from 70,000 tons to an impressive 180,000 tons.
The collaboration between Infinity Lithium and thyssenkrupp not only addresses the pressing need for increased lithium production but does so with an environmentally conscious approach. By integrating green hydrogen technology into the lithium extraction process, the partnership aligns with global sustainability goals and emphasizes the importance of responsible resource management in the renewable energy era.
Infinity Lithium’s forward-looking endeavors in partnership with thyssenkrupp are set to shape the future of lithium production. As the world embraces clean energy and EV adoption accelerates, securing a stable and sustainable lithium supply chain becomes paramount. This partnership exemplifies the innovation and collaboration needed to drive the global transition toward cleaner, greener, and more efficient energy solutions.
