Thacker Pass, Nevada, USA (Lithium Americas)
| Challenge: | Developing multiple process trains for the largest known lithium reserve in the US to while maintaining the highest standards in product purity. |
| Solution: | Aquatech implemented a technology system incorporating crystallization and evaporation technologies for the purification and chemical reduction of lithium carbonate. |
| Result: | Aquatech's full flow sheet process solution, optimized to the resource's unique mineralogy, reduces total project cost and will ensure reliable production of 40,000 metric tons of lithium carbonate annually. |
Thacker Pass, one of the largest lithium developments in the world, showcases Aquatech's ability to deliver a fully integrated process technology solution at scale. Aquatech’s bedrock of experience is enabling Lithium Americas to enact a system of world-leading purification and chemical production systems, which will produce over 40,000 metric tons of battery-grade lithium carbonate annually.
Challenge
Developing multiple process trains for the largest known lithium reserve in the US to deliver a 99.9% purity lithium carbonate product from the clay-based site. Beyond lithium, the brine contains high levels of other constituents including magnesium, potassium, and sodium.
Solution
For two years, Aquatech collaborated with Lithium Americas to conduct pilot testing at our world-leading manufacturing facilities, resulting in a mature technology system incorporating crystallization and evaporation technologies for the purification and chemical reduction of lithium carbonate. During the first stage of crystallization, the purified lithium sulfate stream is mixed with soda ash to precipitate lithium carbonate. The reactors retain a high temperature and slurry density to minimize lithium carbonate solubility and scaling potential, leading to superior product purity and longer machinery lifespan.
Result
Aquatech’s technology leadership track record of performance excellence puts the Thacker Pass project on firm ground. The project, in which General Motors holds a significant stake, reached final investment decision in April 2025, putting Phase 1 of the Thacker Pass facility on track to become a crucial part of the U.S. lithium supply chain.