MECS, a subsidiary of Elessent Clean Technologies, was contracted for the provision of an MECS sulfuric acid plant by Lithium Americas Corp. (LAC).

The new 3,000 MTPD sulfuric acid plant will feature MECS HRS technology to harness waste heat for steam generation which will be converted to carbon free energy. The new plant will be located at Lithium Americas’ Thacker Pass operation which is the largest lithium carbonate processing plant in North America and is fully permitted for construction.

The MECS sulfuric acid technology provides sulfuric acid for the processing of battery raw materials while ensuring the most stringent control of site emissions.

“We are thrilled to be working with Lithium Americas and EXP on this project. It is very exciting to be part of such a monumental project in the United States that has the potential to make a global impact on the battery metal supply chain. Throughout the planning process our team has been cognizant of environmental preservation, and we want Thacker Pass to be the prototype for environmental stewardship for other projects of this nature. We have worked closely with Lithium Americas to ensure maximum efficiency so they can meet industry growth needs while prioritizing carbon reduction initiatives,” said Eli Ben-Shoshan, CEO, Elessent.

EXP has been awarded the contract for design, engineering, and supply of equipment and materials for the sulfuric acid plant. EXP is a global leader in oil, gas and chemicals and will work seamlessly with MECS to further the Thacker Pass operation.

“EXP is proud to work alongside Lithium Americas to advance the largest lithium processing project in the US towards a clean energy future. The combination of Lithium Americas’ experience, EXP’s large project execution capabilities and the advanced technology of MECS offers the capability to solve one of the world’s most complex energy challenges,” said EXP’s Senior Vice President of Oil, Gas and Chemicals, Walter Mutler.