Rio Tinto, Eramet and LG Energy have submitted proposals to develop lithium extraction technology for a Chilean salt flat in the early stages of exploration, Reuters reported.

Chile is seeking to develop the salt flat known as Salares Altoandinos for lithium mining.

Chilean state minerals company Enami has called for detailed plans from bidding companies to test the brine deposits within the salt flats.

These plans should include step-by-step processes for extracting lithium to battery-grade quality and outline the environmental impact assessment for brine reinjection.

In a statement, Enami said: “The objective… is to become acquainted with state of art development of technological processes for lithium extraction that are being developed worldwide.”

Both Rio Tinto and Eramet have established their presence in the country with their projects.