Choosing which DLE technology to license will be a crucial decision upon which Exxon's production of the battery metal will rely. The company has held talks with a range of DLE technology providers, including International Battery Metals (IBAT.CD) and privately held EnergySource Minerals. "We haven't chosen a (DLE) company yet. Because it not yet chosen a DLE technology, Exxon also has not yet forecast how much lithium it ultimately aims to produce. Exxon is also studying where else in the world it could produce lithium, Howarth said.

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Persons: Dado Ruvic, Patrick Howarth, Howarth, we'll, Ernest Scheyder, David Gregorio Our Organizations: Exxon Mobil, REUTERS, Reuters, Rio Tinto, International Battery Metals, EnergySource, Exxon, Tetra Technologies, Thomson Locations: ., Arkansas, Sunresin, Rio, Los Angeles