The mining industry in the United States is something to take note of. The state of California is one of the most important states for mines in America.
As of 2018, 23 different commodities were produced by a total of 739 mines in the area. These commodities included rare earth, construction minerals, boron, and gold. These mining activities form a vital part of the economy of the Golden State, especially if you consider that during 2020, 99,120 indirect and direct jobs were created by these activities.
A value-driven approach to mining
In that same year, this industry in California also generated a hefty $7,3 billion just in labor income with $13.6 billion in GDP.
The state’s resources are beneficial to the mining companies as they utilize the established transport networks, clean energy, as well as the infrastructure that is available. California also places great value on reclamation.
The exceptionally high standards set for reclamation ensure that these mining sites are returned as much as possible to their original states, thereby minimizing the environmental impact that they have.
Recent ecological and other developments within California have opened the door for some new potential mining activities that can have a major impact.
Unlocking the possibilities that lie within California
The Salton Sea is a landlocked lake that is situated within Southern California in Imperial and Riverside counties. It used to be a popular holiday destination, but may currently be rather seen as a disaster zone.
Toxic dust is released across the majority of the 30,000 acres of exposed lake bed. This toxic crust contains carcinogens and heavy metals, which get released into the air.
This pollution causes some serious health hazards within the surrounding communities and affects especially the very vulnerable – children and the elderly. The continued shrinkage of the sea levels has led to an ecological collapse. Approximately 7,000 acre-feet of water is lost every year due to evaporation and agricultural water diversion.
Innovative ways to extract the minerals
Despite all this, a golden opportunity presented itself. Found within the Salton Sea are approximately 18 million metric tons of lithium reserves that are dissolved in the geothermal brine. The lithium concentrations found within these brines are up to 400 parts per million.
This is so much more than the sources typically found within South America, as these only contain 50- 200 ppm.
Noting these figures, it is important to understand that these reserves can power almost 375 million electric vehicle batteries. This can have the potential to make America self-sufficient when it comes to lithium production.
A global upward dynamic is predicted for lithium production. With this in mind, it is understandable why the focus is on the Salton Sea.
The Salton Sea would be able to produce almost half the world’s current lithium supply. This would generate some $7,2 billion per annum whilst at the same time transforming the economic landscape of the region. The direct lithium extraction process is the perfect design for the Salton Sea as it considers its unique conditions.
This technology will integrate with the existing geothermal energy infrastructure. This is the same infrastructure that has been in operation since the 1980s. This will then create a dual-purpose system that can produce both battery materials as well as renewable energy.
During this process, mineral-rich brine is intercepted before it is reinjected into the earth. This is done by using proprietary absorbent materials to selectively capture lithium ions.
The EnergySourceMinerals ILiAD, or “Integrated Lithium Adsorption Desorption” system, is able to achieve 94% purity, according to lab tests.
If the Salton Sea resources are developed, import reliance could be reduced by as much as 40% by the year 2035. This is if one considers that America currently only produces less than 1% of the global lithium supply, thus importing the rest that is required. The economic impact of this will also be beneficial.
Carol McDaniel is a dedicated and results-driven professional with 5 years of experience and US News. Known for her strong problem-solving skills and collaborative mindset, Carol has built a reputation for delivering high-impact results across diverse teams and projects.
Throughout her career, she has demonstrated expertise in 2 core skills or areas, e.g., client relations and project coordination, and is passionate about continuous learning and meaningful contribution. Carol thrives in dynamic environments and consistently brings professionalism, adaptability, and a focus on growth to every role she takes on.