PERTH (miningweekly.com) – ASX-listed Anson Resources has inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with direct lithium extraction (DLE) expert Sunresin to develop a full-scale commercial lithium plant at the Paradox lithium project, in Utah.

Under the terms of the binding MoU, Sunresin will provide equipment, consumables, innovations and technical support services to Anson for the development, design, construction, operation and optimisation of Sunresin’s proprietary DLE technology for the production of battery-grade lithium carbonate at the Paradox project.

Anson will supply data related to the project, including results of the definitive feasibility study (DFS) when completed.

Anson told shareholders that there would be no financial implications to the company as the parties are to cooperate with each other at their own cost in their efforts to pursue the provision of Sunresin’s technology assistance in project development, engineering design, construction, operations and optimisation, with an aim to reach a commercial agreement in due course. There is no fixed term to the MoU.

Anson will also have guaranteed access to Sunresin’s global supply chain of distribution centres and technical support network in Asia and Europe, to support Anson’s strategic development of the project. In addition, Sunresin will provide Anson with technology updates, innovations and support during the life of the proposed project, including future expansions and optimisations.

“We are delighted to announce the strategic partnership with Sunresin as our technology partner today. Sunresin’s DLE technology is the most attractive for the Paradox lithium project’s brine and meets our goal of producing the highest quality and cleanest lithium carbonate in the US. We look forward to a long association with Sunresin,” said Anson executive chairperson Bruce Richardson.

The Paradox project is currently estimated to host a Joint Ore Reserves Committee-compliant resource of 186 000 t of lithium carbonate equivalent, and the company is considering a dual lithium and bromine from brine project, leveraging off common plant infrastructure.

Previous studies have estimated that the Stage 1 brine operation would require a capital investment of $177-million, generating yearly revenue of $126-million over a 20-year mine life.

An updated DFS on the Paradox project is expected in the near future.