Delithiated Beta Spodumene (DBS)
From lithium refinery co-product to qualified industrial material
Delithiated beta spodumene (DBS) is a co-product of lithium refining with potential for use as an industrial material where its characteristics can be aligned with defined product, processing and market requirements.
Vaerx develops structured pathways to assess that potential, drawing on over 25 years' experience across smelting, refining, industrial chemicals and mineral processing, including direct experience with lithium refinery co-products.
FROM CO-PRODUCT TO DEFINED MATERIAL
DBS has characteristics that can support its development as an industrial material. The pathway begins by defining the intended product and its requirements, then establishing how the material can be aligned with them.
DEFINE
THE PRODUCT
CHARACTERISE
THE MATERIAL
DEVELOP
THE PATHWAY
Establish the intended application, specification and performance requirements.
Establish the relevant chemical, mineralogical and physical characteristics of the DBS.
Determine the processing and qualification steps required to align the material with the defined product.
PRODUCT QUALIFICATION AND DEPLOYMENT
Vaerx develops product qualification pathways that connect defined industrial requirements with material characterisation, targeted processing and performance validation. The objective is to establish technically supported products with a credible pathway to commercial deployment.
TECHNICAL
VALIDATION
PRODUCT
QUALIFICATION
COMMERCIAL
DEPLOYMENT
Undertake targeted laboratory and pilot-scale testing to establish material performance against defined product requirements.
Generate the technical evidence required to demonstrate compliance with product specifications and intended applications.
Develop practical pathways for production, supply and market adoption in collaboration with producers and industrial partners.