E3 Lithium Advances Lithium Production Testing and Offers Update on Field Pilot Plant Commissioning

E3 Lithium, a prominent lithium developer and pioneer in extraction technology based in Alberta, has announced a significant achievement – the successful production of lithium carbonate. This milestone marks a crucial step in the conventional process, serving as a prelude to the transformation into battery-grade lithium hydroxide monohydrate (LHM).

The recent test work employed concentrate derived from brines located within E3 Lithium's Clearwater Project Area. These concentrates were generated during the execution of Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) testing, conducted as part of the preparation for the forthcoming pilot plant activities. Notably, E3 Lithium has partnered with a major lithium refining technology and equipment vendor to advance the downstream lithium production procedures, setting the stage for the impending Pre-Feasibility Study. The testing regimen was designed to treat a specific sample of concentrate, also referred to as eluate, produced via the DLE technology.

The test program has achieved successful progress through the initial stages of coarse purification and concentration. Consequently, the eluate has been successfully transformed into lithium carbonate. The forthcoming stages entail additional downstream refining processes aimed at achieving the desired level of purity. Subsequently, the carbonate will be converted into the sought-after battery-grade LHM.

In tandem with the pilot plant's consistent generation of concentrate, E3 Lithium is poised to produce higher quantities of both carbonate and LHM. A visual representation of the lithium carbonate produced during the ongoing test program is depicted below. Chris Doornbos, the President and CEO of E3 Lithium, commented on this significant development:

"The successful production of high-quality carbonate from our Leduc brines in collaboration with a major equipment vendor marks an incredibly exciting milestone for our Company. Demonstrating the efficacy of downstream lithium refining processes using E3 Lithium's brine enhances the confidence in our commercial procedures."

The objectives underlying the comprehensive test program are multifaceted. They encompass the validation of the downstream process flow, the generation of data necessary for engineering design endeavors, and the production of LHM to potentially engage with offtake partners. E3 Lithium remains committed to providing continuous updates as the test program unfolds.

E3 Lithium is pleased to report the ongoing progress in commissioning its DLE field pilot plant. The Company is on track to initiate operations in the near future, with plans to update the market upon the successful completion of the commissioning phase. This forthcoming operational endeavor signifies another significant stride towards realizing the company's strategic objectives and reinforcing its position in the lithium extraction landscape.