Anson Files Patents for Chemical-Free Iron Removal in Lithium Brine Extraction
Anson Resources has lodged two US patent applications for a novel chemical-free technology that removes iron from lithium-rich brines, potentially cutting costs and environmental impact in its Direct Lithium Extraction process.
- Two US patent applications filed for iron removal technology
- Pilot plant processed over 10,000 gallons of brine reducing iron below 1 ppm
- Larger demonstration unit (200-250 gpm) under assembly for 100tpa LCE plant
- Chemical-free process uses compressed air oxidation instead of chemicals
- Technology aims to lower production costs and environmental footprint
Anson Advances Chemical-Free Iron Removal Technology
Anson Resources (ASX:ASN) has taken a significant step in lithium extraction innovation by filing two patent applications with the US Patent and Trademark Office for a chemical-free method to remove iron from lithium-rich brines. This technology, developed through its subsidiary A1 Technologies, promises to enhance the efficiency of Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) by addressing a key challenge: iron contamination.
The pilot plant unit, capable of processing 5 to 10 gallons per minute (gpm) of raw brine from Anson’s Boysdaba #1 well, has successfully treated over 10,000 gallons, reducing iron levels to below 1 part per million (ppm). This is a critical achievement given that iron deposits can coat DLE resin and degrade its performance over time.
Scaling Up for Demonstration Plant
Building on the pilot’s success, Anson is assembling a larger demonstration plant unit with a capacity of 200 to 250 gpm at its Lithium Innovation Center in the USA. This unit is designed to support the company’s planned 100 tonnes per annum lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) demonstration plant, expected to be completed by year-end.
The process innovatively uses compressed air to increase dissolved oxygen in the brine, accelerating the oxidation of iron molecules into ferric oxide, which then precipitates out of solution. Unlike conventional methods that rely on chemical oxidants and pH modifiers, Anson’s approach eliminates chemicals, potentially reducing both capital and operating costs.
Environmental and Cost Implications
Anson’s chemical-free iron removal aligns with its broader strategy to minimize environmental impact while boosting lithium recovery. By avoiding chemical additives, the process not only simplifies operations but also reduces environmental risks associated with chemical handling and disposal. This innovation could translate into lower production costs, enhancing shareholder value.
The technology was initially pilot tested at Green River, Utah, in 2024/2025 with support from Koch Technology Systems, demonstrating rapid iron oxidation and precipitation. Since then, the Innovation Center has refined the system, confirming consistent iron reduction from feed brines ranging from 5 to 44 ppm down to less than 1 ppm without affecting lithium concentrations.
Innovation Center’s Role in Technology Development
Anson’s Lithium Innovation Center has been pivotal in advancing this technology alongside other lithium extraction and processing optimizations. The Center’s work includes evaluating DLE resins and downstream concentration methods such as nanofiltration and evaporation, providing a robust knowledge base for commercial deployment.
The iron removal process inventor, R. Jachuck, is a consultant to A1 Technologies and holds the intellectual property, which Anson plans to leverage for its Green River operations and potential licensing opportunities, opening secondary revenue streams.
This patent filing complements Anson’s recent milestones, including producing battery-grade lithium carbonate exceeding industry purity standards, underscoring the company’s progress toward commercial lithium supply for electric vehicle markets.
Bottom Line?
Anson’s chemical-free iron removal patents could reduce costs and environmental impact, but commercial success hinges on demonstration plant performance and market adoption.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the up-scaled iron removal unit meet performance and reliability targets in the demonstration plant?
- How soon might Anson pursue licensing agreements to monetise the patented technology beyond its own projects?
- What impact will this innovation have on overall lithium recovery rates and operational costs at Green River?
