American Battery Technology Company (ABTC) has achieved a significant milestone by successfully producing demonstration-scale quantities of lithium hydroxide material at its integrated facility using its own lithium-bearing claystone material from the Tonopah Flats Lithium Project near Tonopah, NV.
The facility, which utilizes ABTC’s innovative technology, represents a major breakthrough as there are currently no commercial facilities in the US manufacturing battery grade lithium hydroxide from domestic resources. CEO Ryan Melsert highlighted the importance of this achievement, emphasizing the growing demand for lithium in high energy density cathode materials within North America.
With the successful production of lithium hydroxide, ABTC is now able to supply strategic customers for qualification and long-term offtake agreements, essential for companies constructing facilities for cathode material manufacturing. The company’s demonstration-scale facility enables the production and delivery of significant quantities of lithium hydroxide for evaluation in the negotiation of these agreements.
Looking ahead, ABTC aims to further advance its technology by constructing a commercial-scale lithium hydroxide refinery at its TFLP property, supported by a $57.5 million grant from the US Department of Energy. This project, totaling $115 million, will be executed by global construction firm Black & Veatch.
ABTC’s innovative approach to lithium production from unconventional claystone resources marks a significant step towards increasing US production of battery grade lithium products. Additionally, the company is pioneering battery recycling technologies at its facility in Storey County, NV, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable practices in the energy sector.
