TECHNOLOGY LICENSING OPPORTUNITY: LiSA (Lithium Sensing with Advanced Polymer Systems)

LiSA (Lithium Sensing with Advanced Polymer Systems) is a field-deployable, polymer-based sensing platform from Los Alamos National Laboratory that enables rapid, in situ detection of lithium in geothermal brines and clay-rich formations — eliminating the need for costly full-depth drilling and time-intensive laboratory assays during early-stage exploration. Engineered to operate under variable temperature, salinity and pH conditions typical of lithium-hosting environments, LiSA allows exploration teams to confirm lithium presence in real time, reduce exploration risk and accelerate resource validation. By lowering costs, shortening decision cycles and improving targeting accuracy, the technology addresses a critical bottleneck in domestic lithium development and offers scalable potential for adaptation to other critical minerals, positioning licensees at the forefront of next-generation resource exploration.

Technology Description:

LiSA works by using a specially designed sensing material that selectively recognizes lithium when it comes into contact with underground fluids or soil. The sensing material is integrated into a portable platform that can be deployed directly in the field, where it interacts with samples onsite and produces a measurable signal if lithium is present. Because the sensing component is engineered to remain stable under the high salinity, temperature and varying chemical conditions typical of lithium-bearing environments, it can function reliably outside of a laboratory setting. In essence, the system translates the chemical presence of lithium into a rapid, field-readable response that helps guide exploration decisions in real time.

The Opportunity:

By integrating LiSA’s selective sensing technology into exploration services, downhole tools, surface sampling systems, geothermal operations or direct lithium extraction (DLE) platforms, our partners can offer their customers faster resource validation, reduced exploration risk and...