Atlas Lithium Corp. (ATLX) is making waves in the environmentally conscious lithium industry. The company’s modular dense media separation (DMS) lithium processing plant design has been chosen as a finalist in a competition hosted by a Brazilian non-profit organization. The contest recognizes companies using sustainable practices in the Minas Gerais region, a key area for lithium mining in Brazil. The winner will be announced on November 14th.
Atlas’ innovative plant stands out for its environmentally friendly design. Its modularity significantly reduces its physical footprint compared to traditional lithium processing plants, minimizing land use and optimizing transportation. The plant’s reduced height, weight, and footprint also contribute to its environmental sustainability. Furthermore, the company emphasizes its commitment to water conservation, claiming that the plant uses the lowest amount of water of any operational lithium facility.
The plant, which will be the first of its kind in Brazil, is currently in the final stages of fabrication. 48 of the expected 100 containers are ready for shipment from South Africa. The plant employs a refined version of the DMS method, which separates lithium minerals from lighter waste materials using a dense liquid medium. This efficient process ensures higher recovery rates and minimizes waste.
Atlas Lithium’s environmentally conscious approach has garnered praise from industry experts. H.C. Wainwright & Co. analyst Heiko Ihle described the plant’s design as an “environmentally friendly solution” that streamlines operations while minimizing environmental impact. He also highlighted the plant’s water-saving features, setting a new standard for sustainable lithium production.
The company’s Neves Lithium Project in Minas Gerais spans over 468 square kilometers and is one of Brazil’s largest lithium exploration projects. The area is rich in pegmatites, hard rock formations containing lithium-bearing minerals like spodumene and petalite.
Atlas Lithium’s commitment to sustainable practices aligns with the growing demand for lithium, a critical metal for the energy transition. Lithium is a key component in electric vehicle batteries and other applications, driving a surge in global demand. According to Statista, global lithium demand is projected to reach 3,829,000 metric tons of LCE by 2035, up from 917,000 metric tons in 2023. This rising demand is expected to fuel growth in the global lithium market, which is projected to reach a value of US$6.4 billion by 2028.
Atlas Lithium’s environmentally conscious approach to lithium extraction positions the company as a leader in the industry. The company’s commitment to sustainability, combined with its large-scale exploration project and strategic partnerships, suggests a promising future in the rapidly evolving lithium market.
