Evonik Industries is supporting the next phase of Neptune Energy’s Altmark Lithium Extraction (ALE) Project in northern Germany. Following successful preliminary tests, Evonik’s Liocel® adsorbent has been selected as the first material for evaluation at the direct lithium extraction (DLE) pilot plant developed by Fraunhofer IEG. The project aims to advance lithium recovery from geothermal brine and strengthen Europe’s supply of critical raw materials.
Altmark Holds Significant Lithium Resources
The Altmark region in Saxony-Anhalt contains a project-specific lithium resource estimated at 43 million tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE). Neptune Energy plans to recover lithium from geothermal brine using DLE technology. By developing a domestic lithium supply, the company aims to contribute to a more resilient European critical raw materials supply chain.
Pilot Phase I Identified Adsorption Technology
During Pilot Phase I, Neptune Energy evaluated several commercially available DLE technologies under conditions specific to the Altmark resource. The assessment included both ion-exchange and adsorption-based processes. Following the evaluation, Neptune selected adsorption technology for further testing in Pilot Phase II. For the next phase, Evonik’s Liocel® adsorbent will be the first material evaluated, supported by its demonstrated stability and strong performance during preliminary testing. Evonik will also contribute application and process expertise directly at the pilot site.
Fraunhofer Pilot Plant Enables Lithium Extraction
Fraunhofer IEG developed the pilot plant to demonstrate oxygen-free lithium extraction from geothermal brine. The facility can process up to 1,000 litres of geothermal brine per day. During Pilot Phase II, Neptune Energy will evaluate multiple adsorbent materials over the coming months. The results will help identify the most suitable technology for potential future industrial-scale lithium extraction from the Altmark resource.
Supporting Europe’s Lithium Supply Chain
The collaboration between Neptune Energy, Evonik and Fraunhofer IEG represents another step towards developing direct lithium extraction from geothermal resources. Michael Frey, Vice President and Head of Process Catalysts & Adsorbents at Evonik, said the company is pleased to support the next phase of the project and contribute its technical expertise. As per the press release, by testing adsorption-based lithium extraction under the specific conditions of the Altmark resource, the partners aim to advance a potential domestic source of lithium while supporting Europe’s broader efforts to secure critical raw materials.
