ADVANCED LITHIUM METAL PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY COMPETITIVE LICENSING OPPORTUNITY REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The Y-12 National Security Complex is seeking proposals for a competitive licensing opportunity for its advanced lithium metal production technology. The technology enables lithium metal production at temperatures below 100°C through an integrated extractive metallurgy and electrowinning process. The selected licensee will be responsible for advancing the technology from TRL-3 to pilot-scale demonstration and toward commercial readiness. The scope of work includes process validation and optimization, engineering scale-up, pilot system design and operation, development of operational and quality systems, and commercial readiness planning. • The technology has several key technical attributes, including lithium metal purity exceeding 98.8% by weight, approximately 92% reduction in energy consumption, and improved operational safety. • The licensing process will consist of three phases: R&D license, milestone-based down-selection, and exclusive commercial license. • Applicants must be U.S.-owned and U.S.-controlled companies, and all participating personnel must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. • The proposal evaluation criteria include technical merit, commercial potential, organizational capability, financial capability, and innovation and risk management.