ElectraLith is an Australian company specializing in sustainable lithium extraction and refining technology. Founded in 2021 as a spinoff from Monash University, the company has developed an innovative Direct Lithium Extraction and Refining (DLE-R) technology. This patented process enables the production of battery-grade lithium hydroxide without using water or harmful chemicals, while operating exclusively on renewable energy sources.
The company’s approach to lithium extraction addresses critical environmental challenges in the battery supply chain. By eliminating water consumption and chemical usage, ElectraLith contributes significantly to reducing the environmental impact of lithium production, an essential component for electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy storage systems.
Battery Technology
ElectraLith’s DLE-R technology represents a significant advancement in lithium extraction methods. The system uses an electro-membrane process that extracts and refines lithium in a single, modular step. This innovative approach produces battery-grade lithium hydroxide, essential for manufacturing high-performance lithium-ion batteries.
The technology’s efficiency stems from its unique ability to process various lithium sources, including brines, geothermal oilfield brines, and spodumene deposits. The process maintains consistent quality while minimizing environmental impact. By operating entirely on renewable energy, the system achieves near-zero emissions during extraction and refining.
ElectraLith’s modular design allows for scalable implementation across different geographical locations and brine chemistries. This flexibility enables the company to adapt its technology to various mining operations and lithium sources, making it particularly valuable for the expanding electric vehicle and energy storage markets.
Recent Projects
In January 2025, ElectraLith announced plans to deploy three pilot plants within 24 months. A significant trial is scheduled at Rio Tinto’s Rincon Project in Argentina for 2026, where the DLE-R technology will demonstrate its capabilities in commercial-scale operations.
The company has also received multiple industry recognitions, including selection for Cicada Top 23 in Australia, placement in the APAC Cleantech 25, and recognition among the Top 5 Lithium Battery Startups in Germany.
Investors
ElectraLith has secured $27.5 million in Series A funding, led by Main Sequence. The investment group includes prominent organizations such as Rio Tinto, Breakthrough Victoria, Chevron Technology Ventures, IP Group, and Monash University. Initial funding of $2.25 million came from Rio Tinto and IP Group Australia in 2022, demonstrating early confidence in the company’s technology.
Business Details
Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Website: https://electralith.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/electralith/
