Chile's Codelco to begin lithium exploration at Maricunga

Chile's Codelco said Feb. 16 that it will begin exploring for lithium at Salar de Maricunga in the Atacama region, after securing its final required permit Jan. 26.

The state-owned miner will conduct a drilling program lasting about 10 months, starting at the end of March.

"Depending on the results of the campaign, specifically the concentrations of lithium dissolved in the brines of mining properties, the company will define whether it is environmentally and economically viable to continue with the development," Codelco said in a statement.

Codelco received environmental approval to develop the salt flat in November 2020.