A recent study by the U.S. Geological Survey and Arkansas Department of Energy suggests the Smackover Formation in southwestern Arkansas may contain millions of tons of lithium, potentially representing 35% to 136% of current U.S. lithium resources. Researchers estimate that the region’s lithium brines could hold between 5.1 and 19 million tons, surpassing the International Energy Agency’s 2030 demand forecast of 717,000 tons. With the U.S. relying heavily on lithium imports, this discovery could enhance domestic supply, prompting companies like Exxon Mobil and Standard Lithium to explore production opportunities in Arkansas.

Source: https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/lithium-arkansas-smackover-usgs-exxon-electric-vehicle-batteries/730931/