The US-based specialty chemical company Albemarle Corporation is planning to add up to 50,000 metric tonnes of mineral conversion production capacity to significantly boost battery grade lithium production (including lithium carbonate and lithium hydroxide) to meet the growing needs of the energy storage market, in particular for customers in the global transportation industry utilising lithium ion battery technology.
Albemarle has commenced feasibility studies and is evaluating potential sites, including several locations in the US and Asia, for the new plant. The plant is expected to be operational in 2020. The new plant is expected to come on stream in multiple phases and will source spodumeneore from Albemarle's joint venture in Greenbushes, Australia.
This expansion plan is expected to further solidify Albemarle's cost leadership position in the growing market for lithium carbonate and lithium hydroxide.
"Albemarle recognises the significant energy storage movement globally and views this plan as the logical next step in our continued support of leading companies in the transportation, consumer devices and renewable energy industries. By expanding our production capabilities, we will be prepared to meet the growing market-driven demand for high-quality, battery grade lithium products as our customers in the global transportation and energy infrastructure industries innovate to utilise energy more efficiently and effectively," said Luke Kissam, president and CEO, Albemarle.
