Anson Validates Lithium Purification Step at Green River Project

Breakthrough in Lithium Purification at Green River

Anson Resources (ASX:ASN) has marked a significant technical milestone in its Green River Lithium Project in Utah by completing the first phase of non-thermal downstream processing test work. The Australian engineering firm JordProxa, specialising in lithium purification and crystallisation, delivered results that not only validated but exceeded the original process design expectations for converting lithium chloride eluate into battery-grade lithium carbonate.

This non-thermal purification stage, a critical step in the downstream circuit, concentrates lithium chloride while removing impurities without the energy-intensive thermal processes. Such efficiency gains are vital for reducing operating costs and enhancing the project's overall economics.

Integrated Processing Strategy and Project Advancement

The Green River Project combines Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) with a purpose-built lithium carbonate refinery. Since July 2025, Anson has shipped approximately 14,000 litres of lithium eluate to JordProxa’s South African facilities for rigorous laboratory and pilot-scale testing. These efforts have been instrumental in optimising the downstream flowsheet, which is now incorporated into Anson’s Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) underway.

Thermal evaporation, carbonation crystallisation, and refining test work are progressing ahead of schedule, with completion expected in Q3 2026. These stages will convert purified lithium chloride into the battery-grade lithium carbonate demanded by the North American electric vehicle and energy storage sectors.

Engineering Collaboration Enhances Project Confidence and Financing Prospects

JordProxa’s involvement goes beyond standard engineering; their iterative approach combining laboratory testing, process simulation, and engineering optimisation has accelerated the project’s readiness for key procurement decisions. This reduces technical risk and bolsters confidence in the DFS assumptions supporting the Final Investment Decision (FID).

Importantly, partnering with an Australian engineering company aligns Green River with national critical minerals priorities and opens avenues for financing support through Export Finance Australia. This strategic alignment could prove crucial as Anson negotiates with potential funding partners.

Environmental Considerations and Project Economics

The refinery design incorporates a Zero Liquid Discharge crystallisation circuit, aiming to minimise liquid waste and recover process water, reflecting Anson’s commitment to environmental stewardship. This integrated approach balances operational efficiency with sustainability, a growing consideration for lithium projects globally.

Executive Chairman Bruce Richardson highlighted the milestone as a key step in de-risking the Green River Project, noting JordProxa’s expertise as a valuable asset in delivering a globally competitive lithium operation. Meanwhile, JordProxa’s Managing Director Paul Browne emphasised the importance of the laboratory programme in validating the flowsheet and supporting the upcoming Front-End Engineering Design (FEED).