A recent analysis conducted by an international team of scientists as part of the RoLiXX project has revealed an extraordinarily high concentration of lithium in brines located in the North German Basin at depths of up to 4200 meters. This region, situated in the Central European Basin System (CEBS), could become a key source of this strategic resource for the continent.
This is reported by Finway
Potential of the Deposit and Scale of Reserves
According to the study, the saline hot waters found in the Permian sandstones of Rotliegend contain approximately 43 million tons of lithium carbonate equivalent. These layers are about 300 million years old, and the brines are located at depths ranging from 3 to 5 kilometers below the earth’s surface. Scientists emphasize that this data makes the deposit the largest in Europe and one of the most significant in the world.
It is worth noting that the analysis is conducted using already drilled deep wells, which allows for a systematic exploration and assessment of extraction prospects. Experts believe that the lithium levels in certain areas significantly exceed the average, indicating the presence of a large undeveloped resource.
Challenges for Extraction and Future Plans
Despite the impressive volumes, extracting lithium from deep brines is accompanied by serious technological challenges. Scientists note that the brines contain a complex mix of dissolved elements, and changes in temperature and pressure during extraction lead to the precipitation of minerals, which can clog equipment and reduce the efficiency of pumping systems.
“Lithium is an extremely important element for the energy transition. As part of the RoLiXX project, scientists have explored the previously under-researched potential of deep-water lithium deposits in the Rotliegend area of the North German Basin,” commented Dominik Soyka, a representative of Neptune Energy.
For this reason, the RoLiXX project team is actively working on developing innovative extraction methods that will be effective under high salinity conditions. Resource assessment will continue for at least another three years, and the results of this work could shift the balance of the lithium market in Europe and globally.