The lithium mine, calculated using a machine-learning model and geological information that predicted maps of lithium concentration, represents 35% to 136% of the current amount of lithium estimated to be in the U.S. Lithium could be extracted from the waste stream of the brines—deposits of groundwater rich in minerals—in the Smackover Formation.

New research suggests Arkansas may be home to up to 19 million tons of lithium reserves, potentially giving the U.S. the chance to lead in the EV industry.

Researchers say the Smackover Formation could hold enough lithium to supply global demand for years to come — if it can be commercially recovered.

Federal and state researchers said there might be five million to 19 million tons of lithium, more than enough to meet the world’s demand for the battery ingredient.

A new study by the U.S. Geological Survey found massive lithium reserves in southwestern Arkansas that could have between 5 million and 19 million tons of lithium.

A recent article published in the journal Science Advances suggests that Arkansas may have as much as 19 million tons of raw lithium, which could be mined and used in rechargeable batteries.