Why Clayton Valley?
Clayton Valley, Nevada, is home to North America’s only producing lithium brine operation (Albemarle’s Silver Peak mine). The region’s geology is highly favorable for lithium extraction, with high-grade brine deposits trapped beneath the surface.
Pure Energy Minerals’ Clayton Valley South (CVS) project is strategically positioned adjacent to existing lithium operations, benefiting from:
Proven lithium-rich aquifers
Existing infrastructure (roads, power, water access)
Favorable regulatory environment for mining
The Importance of the CV-3 Pumping Test
The recently completed pumping test at drill hole CV-3 was designed to assess:
Brine flow rates
Lithium concentration stability
Aquifer characteristics (permeability, recharge rates)
This data is essential for designing a future extraction system and will be incorporated into the upcoming Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA).
Test Methodology
The pumping test was conducted over 46 hours with the following setup:
Submersible pump installed in CV-3
Monitoring equipment in CV-3 and CV-1 (200m away)
Constant pumping rate: 69 gallons per minute (4.4 L/s)
Key Findings
Stable Brine Production: The test confirmed consistent lithium brine flow with minimal fluctuations.
High-Quality Brine: Samples showed steady conductivity and density, indicating uniform lithium concentration.
Hydrogeological Data Collected: Critical insights into aquifer behavior were obtained, helping optimize future wellfield design.
What This Means for Lithium Extraction
The success of this test suggests that:
Commercial-scale extraction is feasible
The brine aquifer is reliable for long-term production
Future PEA will have stronger technical backing
Statement from Pure Energy’s CEO
Patrick Highsmith, CEO of Pure Energy Minerals, emphasized the importance of this milestone:
"This successful pumping test is another important milestone, advancing our exploration and development program toward the Preliminary Economic Assessment. Dr. Andy Robinson and the Montgomery team carefully designed and executed the pumping test, providing critical parameters for wellfield design. This work further demonstrates our team’s expertise and our commitment to creating value in Clayton Valley."
Next Steps for the Project
With the pumping test completed, Pure Energy Minerals will:
Incorporate data into the PEA (expected in the coming months)
Optimize wellfield design for future production
Continue exploration to expand the lithium resource estimate
Permits & Legal Framework
The pumping test was conducted under:
Nevada’s Mineral Exploration Exemption
Permits from the Nevada Division of Water Resources & Environmental Protection
These permits allow:
Temporary brine extraction
Controlled surface discharge (ensuring no environmental harm)
Sustainable Lithium Extraction Approach
Pure Energy Minerals is committed to environmentally responsible lithium production, focusing on:
Minimal water usage (compared to hard-rock mining)
Low carbon footprint (brine extraction is less energy-intensive)
Compliance with Nevada’s strict environmental regulations
Growing Demand for Domestic Lithium
With the U.S. pushing for lithium independence, projects like CVS are strategically important for:
Electric vehicle (EV) battery supply chains
Renewable energy storage solutions
Potential Economic Impact
If the PEA confirms strong economics, the CVS project could:
Create jobs in Nevada
Attract investment from battery manufacturers
Position Pure Energy as a key U.S. lithium supplier
Competitive Advantages of Pure Energy’s Project
Proximity to Albemarle’s existing operations (proves deposit viability)
Faster permitting process (Nevada is mining-friendly)
Scalable brine extraction technology
The successful pumping test at CV-3 is a major technical and strategic achievement for Pure Energy Minerals. It confirms the viability of lithium brine extraction at Clayton Valley South and sets the stage for the upcoming Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA). As the world transitions to clean energy and electric vehicles, projects like CVS will play a critical role in securing a domestic lithium supply. With strong results from this test, Pure Energy Minerals is well-positioned to become a key player in North America’s lithium market. Investors, industry stakeholders, and clean energy advocates should keep a close eye on Pure Energy’s next steps as it advances toward lithium production in Nevada.