Smackover Reports Highest Lithium-in-Brine Grades in North America at Texas Project

Smackover Achieves Record Lithium-in-Brine Grades at Franklin Project

Smackover Lithium, a joint venture between Standard Lithium and Equinor, announced the first inferred resource for its Franklin project in East Texas. This project highlights the highest lithium-in-brine grades reported in North America, reaching 806 mg/L at the Pine Forest 1 well. Analysts estimate the Smackover Formation holds over 4 million tonnes of lithium, sufficient to power millions of electric vehicles and electronics. The company aims to produce over 100,000 tonnes of lithium chemicals annually through phased development.

The project spans approximately 80,000 acres, with over 46,000 acres leased for resource development. Smackover used seismic data, historic well cores, and 2023 exploration wells to assess brine quality and aquifer characteristics. Besides lithium, the report identifies significant deposits of potash and bromide, expanding the project’s critical mineral portfolio.

Texas Lithium Project Poised for Expansion and Strategic Growth

Smackover Lithium plans to develop two additional projects in East Texas, potentially tripling its portfolio size in the region. This expansion supports the company’s broader strategy to boost lithium output in North America and complement its Arkansas project, which received a $225 million DOE grant earlier this year.

Standard Lithium’s president, Andy Robinson, emphasized the underappreciated potential of East Texas in the global lithium market. The Franklin project lays a solid foundation for future production growth. Shares of Standard Lithium rose 9.2% on the news, reflecting investor confidence.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

Smackover’s breakthrough in lithium-in-brine grades marks a pivotal moment for US lithium supply chains. As demand for electric vehicles and battery materials intensifies, domestic sources like the Franklin project will reduce reliance on foreign imports. The multi-mineral resource potential, including potash and bromide, enhances project economics and resilience. Investors should watch Smackover’s phased development closely, as it may reshape North American lithium production dynamics and support the transition to clean energy.