New research suggests that Arkansas could hold enough lithium to meet worldwide demand for the mineral nine times over, according to a study by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The study, conducted in collaboration with the Arkansas Department of Energy and the Environment, identified between 5 million and 19 million tons of lithium in the southwestern portion of the Smackover Formation.
Lithium, essential in several key industries, is currently sourced from countries like Argentina and Chile, leaving the U.S. dependent on foreign imports. This discovery could significantly boost the U.S. supply chain by reducing the need for imported lithium. USGS researcher Katherine Knierim remarked, “We estimate there is enough dissolved lithium present in that region to replace U.S. imports of lithium and more.”
Further analysis is required to determine how much of the lithium can be extracted with current technologies, but the potential is clear. The Smackover Formation extends across several states, including Alabama and Texas, creating an opportunity for large-scale domestic production.
If these reserves can be tapped effectively, the U.S. could drastically improve its mineral supply chain independence, benefiting industries that rely on this critical resource. Arkansas could soon play a pivotal role in meeting these national needs.
