A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Prof. Zhiping Lai’s group and Santar Investment Group took place 10^th of May. 

This is to initiate a joint venture and technology development that takes lithium straight from seawater.

Lithium-ion batteries are now widely used in portable devices, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems for renewable energy. It will continue to play a major role in developing our future low carbon and sustainable economy. Also as everyone knows, we are facing a critical challenge in meeting the demand for lithium. Prof. Lai’s group at KAUST has developed the first membrane technology that enables the technical and actually feasible extraction of lithium from seawater. This technology is expected to provide almost unlimited lithium for energy applications. It is a major, major breakthrough. 

So we are delighted to welcome on board professor Lan Weiguang a founder of Santar from Singapore. His experience will help us greatly boost lithium extraction technology. 

This MOU is an excellent example to demonstrate that KAUST can solve the most difficult challenges in the world and provide technologies for the wellness of human beings.