MAINI and SQM Sign Strategic Lithium Research Agreement
Universidad Católica del Norte and SQM formalize a framework agreement for applied research to optimize lithium extraction and purification from brines.
MAINI and SQM Sign Strategic Lithium Research Agreement
Antofagasta, June 20, 2023 — Universidad Católica del Norte, through the Master’s in Artificial Intelligence and Innovation (MAINI), and SQM S.A., a global leader in lithium production, signed a framework collaboration agreement on applied research to optimize extraction and purification processes for lithium from brines.
University–Industry Strategic Alliance
The agreement, signed by UCN Rector Dr. Guillermo Céspedes and SQM’s Innovation and Development Manager, Ricardo Ramos, establishes the basis for long-term collaboration on projects with high technical and economic impact.
“This alliance represents a virtuous model of university–industry collaboration, where frontier research meets the real challenges of the industry,” said Rector Céspedes during the signing ceremony.
Areas of Collaboration
The agreement covers three main pillars:
1. Advanced geometallurgical characterization
Use of QEMSCAN® and XRD equipment for comprehensive characterization of brines, intermediate products, and residues from the lithium extraction process. The aim is to identify critical mineral phases, optimize purification stages, and reduce operational losses.
2. Recovery technology development
Research on new methods for selective lithium recovery, impurity minimization, and by-product utilization (potassium, boron, magnesium). Evaluation of emerging direct extraction (DLE) technologies.
3. Sustainability and circular economy
Studies on environmental footprint reduction, reuse of process water, waste valorization, and responsible mine closure.
Investment and Scope
The agreement includes an initial investment of 350 million Chilean pesos for the first pilot project, with potential annual renewal depending on results. It is expected to generate:
- 8–10 research projects over 3 years
- 15+ scientific publications in high-impact journals
- 3–5 patents on technological innovations
- 20 trained professionals (master’s and PhD students)
Regional Impact
SQM’s Innovation Manager, Ricardo Ramos, noted: “The Antofagasta region is the heart of Chile’s lithium industry. This collaboration with UCN gives us access to world-class scientific capabilities without relying on overseas centers, strengthening the local innovation ecosystem.”
First Project: Recovery Optimization
The first project under this agreement, already underway, addresses lithium recovery optimization through QEMSCAN® characterization of more than 500 representative samples from different areas of the Salar de Atacama. Preliminary results have identified improvement opportunities that could increase recovery by 3–5%, with significant economic impact.
Human Capital Development
A key component is training specialized professionals. SQM will offer:
- Master’s scholarships for outstanding students
- Technical internships at its facilities
- Co-supervision of theses with company experts
- Access to real process data (under NDA)
Testimonials
Dr. Patricia Morales, MAINI Research Director:
“This agreement validates years of investment in equipment and capability development. Applying our expertise to a real problem in the lithium industry is hugely motivating for our team.”
Dr. María González, SQM Geometallurgy Lead:
“MAINI’s characterization capabilities are unique in the country. Their technical rigor and frontier equipment will help us make informed decisions to optimize our processes.”
A Replicable Model
Both institutions hope this agreement will serve as a replicable model for other university–industry collaborations in the region, strengthening the mining innovation ecosystem in northern Chile.
More information:
UCN Engagement Office
vinculacion@ucn.cl
+56 55 2355200
MAINI — Master’s in AI and Innovation:
www.maini.ucn.cl
contacto@maini.ucn.cl