Smackover Lithium Files Maiden Inferred Resource for Its Franklin Project in East Texas, Containing the Highest Reported Lithium-in-Brine Grades in North America

Core Viewpoint - Smackover Lithium, a joint venture between Standard Lithium and Equinor, has filed its Maiden Inferred Resource report for the Franklin Project in Texas, highlighting significant lithium and other mineral resources [1][3]. Resource Summary - The Franklin Project contains 2,159,000 metric tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent with an average lithium concentration of 668 mg/L, along with 15,414,000 tonnes of potash and 2,638,000 tonnes of bromide [3]. - The project area spans approximately 80,000 acres, with over 46,000 acres leased to support the inferred resource, showcasing the highest reported lithium-in-brine grades in North America [4]. Production Goals - The ultimate goal is to achieve production of over 100,000 tonnes of lithium chemicals per year in Texas, supported by two additional projects that are expected to triple the size of the joint venture's portfolio in the state [5]. Next Steps - Recommendations include further refining the characteristics of the Upper and Middle Smackover Formation aquifers and conducting additional drilling to define a Preliminary Feasibility Study [6]. - Direct lithium extraction testing will be conducted using insights from Standard Lithium's Demonstration Plant in Arkansas [7]. Company Background - Smackover Lithium is a joint venture formed in May 2024, with Standard Lithium holding a 55% interest and Equinor 45%, focusing on developing multiple direct lithium extraction projects in Southwest Arkansas and East Texas [10]. - Standard Lithium is a leading lithium development company focused on sustainable production from high-grade lithium-brine properties in the U.S., particularly in the Smackover Formation [11].