Direct Lithium Extraction Process Design
The recovery process uses a direct-lithium-extraction scheme built around media contactors loaded with a proprietary molecular-sieve media, supported by continuously stirred reactors for adsorption. Supporting equipment includes reactors with agitators, numerous storage and surge tanks, an ultrafiltration and reverse-osmosis water treatment skid, a scrubber, and a steam de-superheater fed from the geothermal plant. The process is housed in a multi-level process structure within a prefabricated building, powered through a new pad-mounted transformer and controlled by a stand-alone Allen-Bradley control system.
Corrosion-Resistant Materials for Extreme Brine Conditions
ZAP’s engineering addressed extreme brine corrosivity and very high total dissolved solids, driving specialized materials of construction including Hastelloy, duplex stainless steel, and fiber-reinforced and lined piping. The high-seismic site also required corrosion-resistant concrete and lined containment throughout the facility.
Geothermal Plant Integration & Future Expansion
The demonstration plant integrates directly with the host geothermal power facility, drawing brine feed and returning depleted brine for reinjection. Provisions were also engineered for future expansion, supporting the client’s broader critical-minerals development program. The project demonstrates ZAP’s capability to execute a first-of-a-kind facility integrating novel extraction technology with an operating geothermal plant.
