Clean TeQ’s cDLE® Pilot Yields 98% Lithium Recovery, Ends LithiumBank Deal

Successful Pilot Validates cDLE® Technology

Clean TeQ Water Limited (ASX, CNQ) has delivered encouraging results from its continuous Direct Lithium Extraction (cDLE®) technology pilot at the Boardwalk Lithium Brine Project. Over a 120-hour test in December 2024, the pilot plant processed 29,000 litres of brine, achieving an impressive 98% lithium recovery and 99% impurity removal. The eluate contained lithium concentrations exceeding 3,000 mg/L, culminating in the production of 99.95% pure battery-grade lithium carbonate. These outcomes underscore the technology’s potential as a scalable and efficient solution for lithium extraction from brine sources.

Strategic Shift and Agreement Termination

Following this success, Clean TeQ and LithiumBank Resources Corp. have mutually agreed to terminate their intellectual property license and technology services agreements as of 28 May 2025. This decision reflects a strategic realignment by both parties to pursue independent commercial and technical priorities. Importantly, the termination was amicable, with full releases executed to confirm no ongoing obligations or liabilities. Clean TeQ retains a 60% interest in its majority-owned venture Go2Lithium Inc. (G2L), which holds the exclusive global license to commercialize the cDLE® technology.

Looking Ahead, Redeployment and Growth

With the LithiumBank partnership concluded, Clean TeQ is actively planning the redeployment of the G2L pilot plant to new project sites. Target locations have been identified, and scheduling discussions with prospective partners are underway. The company anticipates announcing details of the next deployment soon, with operations expected to commence within the coming months. This move signals Clean TeQ’s commitment to expanding the global footprint of its lithium extraction technology despite short-term market pricing pressures.

Market Context and Company Outlook

CEO Peter Voigt acknowledged the current lithium sector’s pricing challenges but emphasized the enduring demand for reliable, high-efficiency extraction solutions. He highlighted that the strategic refinement and independent pursuits by both Clean TeQ and LithiumBank are already generating unique growth opportunities. Clean TeQ remains engaged in technology development and process engineering to support G2L’s efforts, aiming to accelerate the adoption of cDLE® technology worldwide.

Overall, this update positions Clean TeQ as a technology leader navigating evolving market dynamics with a clear focus on scalable, sustainable lithium extraction solutions. Investors will be watching closely for forthcoming announcements on new project deployments and partnerships that could drive the company’s next phase of growth.