Sumitomo Metal to produce lithium with rapid-extraction tech

Joint investments eyed in Argentina and Chile for crucial battery material

20230410N Lithium

Lithium can be extracted from brine in salt flats. © Reuters

SHOYA OKINAGA, Nikkei staff writer

TOKYO -- Sumitomo Metal Mining will start producing lithium overseas as early as 2028, Nikkei has learned, using proprietary technology that allows for fast extraction of the key battery-making material.

Lithium can be extracted from ore or from brine in salt flats. Sumitomo Metal is developing a new type of technology for a selective adsorbent that separates lithium from the brine.

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