The Smackover Formation in southern Arkansas and East Texas contains exceptionally high lithium concentrations that could make it a major U.S. source. Standard Lithium plans to begin construction of a 22,500-ton first phase in the first quarter of 2027, while EnergyX targets 15,000 tons by 2027 and ExxonMobil and Chevron have acquired substantial acreage. The resource could reduce America’s dependence on China, which dominates lithium refining, through on-site processing and direct lithium extraction requiring about two days rather than the two years needed for evaporation ponds. Development still depends on financing, purchase agreements, commercial-scale proof of profitability and competition from Chinese prices.
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