Geological, legal and environmental aspects of lithium brine projects, NW Argentina

Abstract

Lithium is crucial for the transition to green energy since Li-ion batteries are commonly used in consumer electronics, electrical vehicles and for storing electricity from renewable energy sources (wind and solar). In this scenery, the Li brine deposits located in Salta, Jujuy and Catamarca (NW Argentina) have a particular interest as they belong to the well-known “Lithium Triangle”. The issues related to the governance and sustainable development of Li resources are particularly challenging due to these Li brine deposits being constituted of dynamic fluids. Geological aspects of Li brine deposits are analyzed in the Argentinian legal framework that was conceived for solid ore deposits. The division of a salar into mining claims is very common in Argentina and this situation requires a specific definition of the boundaries of the mineralized body and the distribution of lithium grade. The understanding of the geological, legal, environmental and social aspects is crucial to address potential conflicts in simultaneous lithium extraction activities within one salar.