Albemarle’s Claim to Unique Lithium Technology Draws Scrutiny

Albemarle’s Claim to Unique Lithium Technology Draws Scrutiny
Brine pools from a lithium mine, that belongs to U.S.-based Albemarle Corp, is seen on the Atacama salt flat in the Atacama desert, Chile, on Aug. 16, 2018. Ivan Alvarado/Reuters
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NEWPORT BEACH, Calif./SANTIAGO, Chile—Albemarle Corp.’s claim to have developed a unique process that would more than triple its lithium production from Chile’s Atacama desert without using more water is drawing increased scrutiny from regulators and investors pushing for more details.

The development could help Albemarle cement its position as the world’s largest lithium company, just as global demand for the light metal is spiking for use in batteries that power electric vehicles and consumer goods.