Pursuit Argentina Pilot Plant Achieves 99pc LCE Milestone

Pursuit Minerals

Pursuit Produces High-Purity Lithium Carbonate from Synthetic Brine

Australian mining firm Pursuit Minerals has successfully produced its first high-purity lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) at its Argentina pilot plant. The plant achieved 98.9% LCE purity from synthetic brine that replicates chemistry from the Rio Grande Sur salt flat.

The pilot facility, with a capacity of 250 metric tonnes per year, yielded several kilograms of LCE for distribution to strategic partners. These samples will allow the company to secure feedback and position itself for offtake discussions and partnership opportunities.

Meanwhile, Pursuit is working to improve its processing to meet battery-grade purity of 99.9%, a requirement for most electric vehicle and storage applications. This optimization is crucial for the company’s plan to transition into full-scale operations.

Path to Commercial Production Gains Momentum in Argentina

Following this breakthrough, Pursuit will shift focus to feasibility studies for a 5,000 t/yr commercial LCE facility in Salta province. The proposed plant will be located next to Rio Tinto’s Rincón project, a major lithium asset in Argentina.

The pilot success strengthens Pursuit’s position in the lithium triangle, where Argentina plays a critical role in global LCE supply. As synthetic brine processing evolves, this approach may offer more predictable and scalable lithium output than conventional evaporation methods.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Pursuit’s near-battery-grade LCE from synthetic brine marks a significant step in the race for cleaner lithium extraction. The move aligns with a broader industry push toward low-carbon, scalable lithium production in Latin America. However, delivering 99.9% battery-grade purity at scale remains the next critical hurdle for commercial viability.