Anson Resources Limited has lodged two patent applications with the United States Patent and Trademark Office for a chemical-free process designed to remove iron from lithium-rich brines at the Green River Lithium Project in Utah.

Iron contamination in raw brine coats direct lithium extraction resins over time, preventing optimal performance and reducing lithium accumulation. Traditional pre-treatment flow sheets rely on chemical oxidants and pH-control agents to precipitate iron out of solution. The proprietary method developed by the company’s 100% owned subsidiary, A1 Technologies Inc., uses compressed air to increase dissolved oxygen concentrations in the brine. This accelerates the oxidation rate of ferrous ions into ferric oxide, which then precipitates to the bottom of the treatment tank without altering the underlying lithium concentration.

To date, more than 10,000 gallons of raw brine have been processed through the system's pilot plant unit, which is capable of handling 5 to 10 gallons per minute. Across more than 102 assays, raw brine feed concentrations ranging from 5 parts per million to 44 parts per million iron were consistently reduced to an average of less than 1 part per million.

Building on pilot test work conducted at Green River during 2024 and 2025, Anson is now assembling an up-scaled, continuous-flow unit at its Lithium Innovation Center in the United States. Designed with a capacity of 200 to 250 gallons per minute, the larger modular configuration eliminates the need for large holding and settling tanks to support commercial operations.

The company expects to complete the up-scaled iron removal system by the end of the year for integration into its planned demonstration plant. The Green River Lithium Project serves as a flagship asset for Anson in the Paradox Basin. The company executed a binding demonstration plant agreement with POSCO Holdings in June 2026 to construct and operate a direct lithium extraction facility at the site.

Final determinations from relevant Utah authorities regarding a proposed state and local incentive package valued at an estimated US$357.7 million are expected in September 2026. Anson targets a final investment decision for the Green River project in the second half of 2027.

Read the full announcement: Anson Applies for Patents for Removal of Fe in Li Rich Brine