Sensor-driven sorting technology by STEINERT improves lithium concentrate levels within Brazil's Lithium Valley

In the heart of Brazil's Lithium Valley, the Jequitinhonha Valley, lies a pioneering company - CBL (Companhia Brasileira de Lítio). This trailblazing organisation operates vertically, from spodumene mining to the chemical conversion of the concentrate, making it the only company in Brazil that produces lithium carbonate and hydroxide from spodumene concentrate.

One of CBL's main challenges has been ore dilution caused by the presence of schist. To tackle this issue, the company has implemented Sensor-Based Sorting (SBS) as a strategic pre-concentration stage. This innovative system, developed in partnership with STEINERT Latinoamericana, has been instrumental in removing schist early before the Dense Media Separation (DMS) stage.

The SBS system identifies and separates material based on intrinsic physical properties such as atomic density, surface colour, particle shape, and brightness. The STEINERT KSS | CLI XT unit, a central component of the SBS system, features multiple sensors for precise lithological discrimination. The multisensor configuration includes a primary X-ray Transmission (XRT) sensor, high-resolution colour cameras, and 3D laser scanners.

The application of sensor technology, combined with robust and responsive operations, has delivered significant gains in selectivity, productivity, and sustainability. Removing over 95% of schist before the DMS stage ensures a cleaner, higher-grade feed, boosting DMS efficiency and maximising overall lithium recovery. As a result, the SBS installation has consistently improved CBL's spodumene beneficiation circuit, with lithium metallurgical recovery surpassing 90%.

The fully dry operation of the industrial installation underscores CBL's commitment to responsible environmental practices. The system can combine multiple separation criteria and adjust ejection logic to accommodate lithological variability and changing ore characteristics over time. The reject stream averages only ~0.3% Li2O, highlighting the exceptional precision and selectivity of the process.

CBL's innovative approach extends beyond the SBS system. The company is committed to innovation and sustainability, continuously investing in technology and process improvement. This dedication is evident in the high-purity lithium products they supply for battery, ceramic, glass, pharmaceutical, and lubricant industries.

The industrial installation operates at a nominal capacity of 100 t/h and is fully dry, eliminating water usage and the need for tailings dams. The partnership with STEINERT Latinoamericana includes ongoing technical support, remote monitoring, periodic visits, and operational adjustments tailored to the process demands.

By harnessing the power of sensor technology, CBL is not only expanding economically viable reserves and reducing waste rock volumes but also setting a new standard for sustainable lithium extraction in Brazil.