The “Raw Materials and Extraction” work line focuses on the identification, comparison, and validation of sustainable methods for recovering critical raw materials from brines and geological fluids found in Germany and Chile.   This work line seeks to evaluate advanced direct element extraction technologies, particularly for lithium, considering not only their technical efficiency but also their environmental, energy-related, and hydrogeological impacts. To achieve this, experimental research, laboratory testing, and comparative analyses will be conducted across different types of reservoirs and brine compositions, enabling the identification of the opportunities and limitations of each technology according to the specific conditions of each territory.   The overall objective is to advance toward extraction solutions that are more sustainable, efficient, and compatible with the environmental challenges associated with the energy transition and the responsible use of natural resources.
Geochemical Exploration

·         Geological and hydrochemical exploration campaign in Chile (March 2026).

·         Assessment of critical raw materials in salt flats beyond lithium.

·         Identification of similarities and differences in brine compositions.

·         Identification of challenges associated with direct element extraction (DEE).

·         Conceptual development and modeling of brine reinjection strategies.

Geochemical Monitoring
Analysis of Different Water Components

·         Groundwater.

·         Lateral surface flows.

·         Salt flat brines.

·         Geothermal fluids.

 

Institute of Applied Materials – Energy Storage Systems
 
Sustainable Next-Generation Battery Technologies
Main Research Areas

·         Direct lithium extraction.

·         Development and processing of materials across the entire battery value chain.

·         Battery recycling.

Objectives

·         Optimization of performance, costs, safety, and sustainability.

·         Development of Li-ion technologies and alternative cell concepts.

·         Generation of knowledge for the comprehensive assessment of the battery ecosystem.