The CRADA will focus on comprehensive research to characterise lithium and other critical minerals as well as testing, with the aim of developing innovative and commercially viable extraction methods in the McDermitt Caldera, which hosts Jindalee’s McDermitt Lithium Project, currently the largest lithium resource in the US containing 21.5Mt of Lithium Carbonate Equivalent1. The research will be led by CMI with other key team members including the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI), Oregon State University, University of Nevada Reno, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and the National Energy Technology Laboratory.
The research team will test innovative metallurgical extraction methods aimed at reducing costs, optimising sustainability, minimising environmental impact and exploring the potential of co-products. Key objectives include lowering water usage, reducing acid consumption and minimising the need for tailings impoundments. The DOE will provide funding for work undertaken by CMI under the CRADA and Jindalee will contribute technical engagement, sample material and data as in-kind cost share. Work completed under the CRADA will be completed within two years, with a final report outlining key developments to be released. Internal team deliverables progress quarterly and include tasks to: thoroughly characterise clay mineralogy hosting the lithium and potentially other critical elements, test the mineralogical suite to develop novel extraction methods, develop co-product hypothetical flowsheets, and improve the proposed baseline lithium extraction process as defined within the upcoming Preliminary Feasibility Study (PFS).
Senator Wyden commented “Mining for the metals that are key to a clean energy future must be done in the most sustainable way possible. I’m glad this agreement has been achieved for Oregon State University and other partners to perform a rigorous analysis of environmental impacts, costs and potential additional options.”
Jindalee’s CEO Ian Rodger commented “This CRADA represents a major step forward for Jindalee and our McDermitt Project and we thank Senator Wyden and other advocates for their support. The collaboration with the Department of Energy, leading research institutions and DOGAMI (being the Oregon State permitting agency) is an exciting endorsement of our Project’s immense potential and strategic importance to the US. By combining our respective technical expertise with the DOE’s resources, we’re poised to develop efficient and sustainable extraction methods that have the potential to build upon the significant work Jindalee has already completed as part of our PFS, which is due later this year.”
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